National Highways has re-selected Clearview Intelligence’s intelligent road stud technology to help keep drivers safe in the Hindhead Tunnel in Surrey as it carries out a major programme of maintenance at the site.
Clearview’s Intelligent Road Studs have been chosen as part of a new generation of its proven lane guidance system within the tunnel, with a total of 860 studs being installed.
The work forms part of National Highways’ planned carriageway resurfacing programme in the tunnel on the A3. Because the existing intelligent road studs are integrated into the carriageway, resurfacing has provided the opportunity to renew the system at the same time.
Unlike conventional reflective road studs, the IRS2 system uses hardwired, high-intensity LED studs that actively illuminate lane markings rather than relying on vehicle headlights. The system provides highly visible lane guidance within the enclosed tunnel environment and can also integrate with traffic management systems, allowing the illuminated studs to respond to changing operational requirements such as lane closures, maintenance activities, contraflow arrangements and incident management.
Rather than adopting an alternative technology, National Highways has chosen to install the latest generation of Clearview’s Intelligent Road Stud system, replacing an earlier Clearview installation that has provided many years of reliable service.
As well as supplying the studs, Clearview is also providing technical oversight and operational support throughout the installation programme. Installation is being undertaken by Clearview Intelligence alongside Lochwynd Contractors, with associated white lining works delivered by Wilson & Scott. A total of 430 studs will be installed in the south bore before a further 430 are fitted in the north bore.
“The project isn’t just about delivering our market-leading Intelligent Road Studs; it also highlights the wider operational services offered by Clearview Intelligence alongside its transport technology portfolio,” explained Clearview’s Director of Operations, James Turner. “These include technical design, installation support, project oversight, specialist highways engineering, maintenance and training. By working with delivery partners and clients, our services help ensure intelligent transport systems are installed safely and continue to perform reliably throughout their operational life.”
The work is being carried out during carefully planned overnight closures to minimise disruption for motorists, allowing the tunnel to reopen to traffic each morning while specialist teams continue renewing the infrastructure behind the scenes.
National Highways describes the Hindhead Tunnel as one of the UK’s most important road tunnels. Opened in 2011, it carries the A3 beneath the Devil’s Punch Bowl and forms a key strategic route between London and Portsmouth.
(Picture – Clearview)
