Intelligent Transport Systems UK Awards win for forthcoming smart traffic corridor scheme developed by Blackpool Council and 4way Consulting
An innovative scheme to use cutting-edge technology to improve five traffic corridors in Blackpool has been awarded a prize in the annual Intelligent Transport Systems UK Awards, before the system is even fully operational.
Photo by Mark mc neill / Unsplash
The ‘smart traffic corridor scheme’ has been designed to improve the flow of traffic in five high-congestion areas across the town: the Promenade, Preston New Road, East Park Drive, Plymouth Road, and Central Drive.
Testing is currently under way of the new system, which has been paid for with £567,000 from the Department for Transport’s Green Light Fund. All five smart traffic corridors expected to be in operation by the end of this month.
Traffic lights at 32 locations along these five routes have been upgraded with smart cameras and sensors. Working from live data gathered by these devices, the frequency of traffic-light changes will be automatically adjusted to optimise traffic flow based on demand, ensuring smoother journeys for all road users.
By reducing congestion, the system is expected to make a significant contribution to wider efforts to improve air quality in the region. The system will also enables better coordination for pedestrians and cyclists, supporting safer and more sustainable transport.
What’s more, the radar detection technology will collect real-time data on volume and types of traffic, which the council can use for better targeted road-traffic strategies.
As a major tourist destination in the UK, Blackpool can see particularly high volumes of traffic during peak season and around major events, and in the past traditional approaches to traffic management have struggled to cope.
Now, the novel use of tech to address these challenges has been recognised by the Intelligent Transport Systems UK Awards, which celebrate the best initiatives in the transport technology sector.
The award’s judges say: ‘Instead of relying on fixed-time traffic signal plans or reactive manual intervention, Blackpool now uses a real-time system that actively reduces congestion, improves air quality, and supports low-carbon modes of travel. The judges saw this project as an excellent example of how technology can support a more sustainable environment.’
Cllr Paula Burdess, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Street Scene and Neighbourhoods at Blackpool Council, adds: ‘I’m delighted that Blackpool is leading the way in using smart traffic management systems to provide a more efficient and sustainable road network for local residents, businesses and visitors. With over 330 miles of roads across the town, our highways team are always looking for innovative ways to help keep our roads running smoothly. By collaborating with expert partners, we’re using technology to create a greener, smarter town.’
Shane Collins, Smart Cities Sector Lead at 4way Consulting, says: ‘By harnessing modern open-data systems and implementing data driven interventions the Blackpool road network is increasingly able to respond in real time to the unique challenges it faces around fluctuating demand. The technology creates the potential for better outcomes for road users and local stakeholders by reducing journey times and the environmental impacts of congestion. We’re excited to continue working with Blackpool Council to assess the results of the project and realise these important benefits for the local community.’
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