Government report examines opportunities and challenges for automated vehicles on UK roads
With the Automated Vehicles Act 2024 receiving royal assent in May 2024, defining high-level responsibilities and processes and creates powers to make secondary legislation, a new report looks at the effect on our future transport networks. The Horizon Scan report quotes figures stating 88% of road crashes involve human error, and suggests AVs could reduce […]
Interoperability key to reviving connected vehicle deployment – WSP
The global consultancy WSP has written a new paper explaining why interoperability of V2X connected vehicle technology is vital to revolutionise traveller safety. Lead consultant Chris Toth says there is renewed momentum for the implementation of Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) connected vehicle (CV) technology. But, if that is going to happen, it will be critical to learn […]
Programme published for Traffic Signs 2024
The Institute of Highway Engineers has published the programme for its popular Traffic Signs Conference & Exhibition. This is the main forum by which the Department for Transport and the industry communicate, and is described as a must for all those involved in the design, specification, manufacture or enforcement of traffic signs, highway engineers, urban […]
ADEPT calls for “robust and flexible” planning framework
ADEPT has responded to the government’s recent planning consultation. The ‘National Planning Policy Framework and other changes to the planning system consultation’ sets out the proposed reforms to the current system. ADEPT’s response to the consultation emphasises the need for a robust and flexible planning framework that prioritises local needs, while fostering sustainable development. It […]
Lower Thames Crossing decision delayed for six months
A decision on whether to go ahead with building the Lower Thames Crossing east of the Dartford Tunnel and QE2 Bridge will not be made until next May. Transport Secretary Louise Haigh says the delay is “in order to allow more time for the application to be considered further, including any decisions made as part […]
Council apologises to motorists and urges them to claim refunds for incorrectly issued parking penalties
Reading Council is “sincerely apologising” and appealing to motorists who may have paid penalty charge notices which were incorrectly issued for parking contraventions in certain parts of Reading. The Council has discovered that the Traffic Regulation Order on sections of the East Reading Red Route and some parking restrictions in other locations are unenforceable. Drivers […]
PTV Group and Econolite unveil innovations aimed at transforming traffic planning and management
PTV Group and Econolite have announced they will debut their latest technological innovations under their joint brand, Umovity at the 2024 Mobility Tech Update. PTV will showcase groundbreaking new features in its renowned software for transportation modelling, multimodal simulation, and real-time traffic management. Econolite will spotlight its advancements in traffic management and ITS hardware and […]
A421 reopens after flooding
The A421 in Bedfordshire has reopened after flooding forced its closure on 22 September. The road was blocked by floodwater between the A6 at Bedford to the M1 junction 13, near Brogborough/Marston Moretaine, after a month of rainfall fell in under 48 hours. Martin Fellows, Regional Director for National Highways in the East of England […]
Science Secretary launches new Regulatory Innovation Office to speed up access to new technologies
It’s hoped new technologies such as AI and drones could be implemented quicker after the setting up of a dedicated new office aimed at cutting red tape on innovation. The new Regulatory Innovation Office (RIO) is designed to reduce the burden for businesses hoping to bring new products and services to the market. One of […]
Jams reduced at Tamar Crossing thanks to new card readers
New card machines installed at the Tamar Bridge have significantly reduced the time it takes to make contactless card payments at the toll booths, helping to reduce both congestion and journey times. The crossing’s operators say that, although the installation of contactless card readers in 2020 had made it easier and quicker for drivers paying […]