Users of the M1 in Northamptonshire will benefit from a major new communications system indicating road conditions and hazards, which went live on Thursday

The Highways Agency has installed 69 new electronic messageboards on 25 miles of the M1 through the county as part of a �14 million upgrade.

They will be used to warn drivers of any problems ahead and inform them of the nature of the hazard.

The coverage extends from three miles south of M1 Junction 15 up to Junction 19, where the M1 joins the M6 and A14.

John Spellar, the Minister for Transport, said: "Motorway communication systems and variable message signs can help drivers to consider altering their journey plans in the event of serious congestion or incidents.

"The system can also be used to recommend alternative routes where these are appropriate."

The upgrade also consists of 21 new CCTV cameras along the M1 and M45 in Northamptonshire to monitor traffic conditions .