Cow Lane has opened to two-way traffic for the first time ever this morning.

The busy road will now have two-way traffic without traffic lights and the road is now tall enough to allow double decker buses to travel along the road for the first time.

The joint project by Network Rail and Reading Borough Council creates a safer and more pleasant environment for residents and businesses.

Jamie Davies, head of programme integration at Network Rail, said: “We are really pleased that together with Reading Borough Council we have been able to deliver this important project that will make a real difference to the people of Reading.

“Unblocking this traffic bottleneck will further improve connectivity around Reading station. We thank everyone for their patience whilst we delivered this upgrade.”

Work is still continuing to create a new pedestrian and cycle route. Traffic will use the new road whilst pedestrians and cyclists will be able to use the old bridge to pass through safely.

Councillor Tony Page, lead member for strategic environment, planning and transport for Reading Borough Council, added: "The removal of Reading’s most notorious bottleneck marks a major landmark for the town.

“For the first time ever two-way traffic will be able to pass through Cow Lane without the need for traffic lights.

“The removal of the height restriction is just as significant, as it opens the route up for lorries and, potentially, for double decker buses."