Highways Agency demonstrates technology at Motor Show

The Highways Agency is showing visitors to the British Motor Show at ExCeL in Docklands how technology keeps our motorways and major 'A' roads moving and drivers up-to-date on traffic conditions.

The Agency sets over 2,000 of the familiar electronic variable messages signs many drivers see every day on England's motorways and major 'A' roads. The signs are used to warn drivers of delays or dangers ahead and many of the signs such as QUEUE CAUTION or reduced speed limits are actually set automatically by sensors in the road that detect traffic levels.

Highways Agency staff will be on hand in the North Hall (stand N120) of the British Motor Show to demonstrate how this system works. This includes showing how data is gathered from the sensors underneath the road surface.

The stand will also contain a large video wall showing real-time CCTV images of the motorway network, replicating what operators in its eight control centres across England see on a day-to-day basis as they work to clear motorway incidents and get the latest information out to the driving public.

Derek Turner, Highways Agency Network Operations Director said: "The staff on our exhibition stand at the Motor Show are looking forward to meeting visitors and showing them how technology helps keep them moving.

"We also make information available to drivers through a range of channels so people can check the latest information before they set out, and receive bulletins via the radio and roadside signs while they are travelling. Visitors to our stand can pick up a free copy of our popular journey planning guide 'Think Ahead Move Ahead'. This includes hints and tips on the best way to plan your journey to avoid the traffic and get to your destination stress-free as well as a free road atlas."

The Highways Agency stand will also have information pods where visitors can try out the Highways Agency's latest information tools. This includes the 24/7 DAB digital radio station, Traffic Radio, and their website, Traffic England. This site allows you to check what is currently being displayed on all the electronic motorway signs across the country, view images from roadside traffic cameras and even check the current average speed between any two motorway junctions.

Car enthusiasts will also be able to see one of our brand new Land Rover Discovery Traffic Officer vehicles as well as seeing the equipment they use on a day-to-day basis to keep England's motorways moving.