COMMUTERS are in for a pre-weekend treat when their journey into Bury becomes much faster.

After councillors made a controversial decision last month, the bus lane in Rochdale Road has been suspended.

It means motorists travelling from the M66 motorway at Heap Bridge towards Bury town centre can use both lanes of the road during the morning and evening rush hours for the first time in years.

A Bury Council spokesman said the idea is to ease road congestion.

He added: "The experimental suspension will last for up to 18 months and be reviewed after six months, and has been prompted by heavy traffic heading into Bury from the motorway junction at Heap Bridge.

"The move was agreed by Bury Council at its last meeting, following a review of all bus lanes near the town centre.

"Journey time surveys are being carried out today and over the next few weeks to monitor ‘before and after’ traffic flows.

"Temporary 'Bus Lane not in operation' signs will be erected along the road."