The UK Highways Agency will use brine to de-ice motorways after a number of cold snaps left major trunk roads hazardous during the winter of 2008.

The brine spray will be introduced region by region as it stays on the surface for longer period than crystal salt that often blows away in the wind. p>

But it takes nearly half an hour to melt the ice with spray salt as it has to dissolve in moisture before it acts.

Previous uses of brine in Canada and Austria were criticised by motorists after it increased corrosion on vehicles.

Although the Highways Agency has consulted spray equipment designers, salt suppliers and environment experts, it has ignored the concern of vehicle manufacturers, the Timesonline daily reported.