Final answer:
The first motorway in Britain was opened in 1958 and was known as the M6 Preston Bypass, bypassing the northern town of Preston. This infrastructure development significantly contributed to the growth of the UK's transport system and had larger effects on urban development and mobility.
Step-by-step explanation:
Britain's first stretch of motorway was officially opened in 1958 to bypass the northern town of Preston, which was later granted city status in 2002. This historical motorway, known as the M6 Preston Bypass, marked a significant development in British transport history, leading to the modern motorway system that is now extensive across the United Kingdom.
The creation of motorways not only transformed the infrastructure of the UK but also had a social impact, facilitating greater mobility and connecting cities and towns in ways that were not previously possible. Similar to the effects seen in the United States with motorways like the Interstate 405, which helped to encourage suburbanization in Southern California, the UK's motorway network led to significant changes in residential patterns, commerce, and the overall landscape. The M6, which now forms part of a broader network of motorways, continues to be a vital artery in the UK's transportation infrastructure.
Like the Sepulveda Pass on Interstate 405, which when opened in 1961 provided quick access from the San Fernando Valley to the Los Angeles Basin, the Preston Bypass initially facilitated smoother and quicker travel for motorists, leading to broader economic and urban development repercussions. The development of motorways has been a critical aspect in shaping modern societies, with both positive and negative consequences, including the growth of commutes, economic development, and environmental challenges.