Driving Innovation: Multilingual VMS Revolutionises Roadworks Communication
Lost Time Injury Rate
0
Positive Observation No.
5
Community Satisfaction %
98
In a groundbreaking stride towards innovation, the project team in National Highways embarked on a visionary initiative to revolutionise communication within the highways sector.
The aim was to provide foreign truck drivers with crucial roadworks information using cutting-edge technology. This pioneering effort marked a significant advancement in the industry's approach to enhancing safety and efficiency for all road users.
Acknowledgment to H W Martin (Traffic Management) Ltd, VPS (UK) Ltd, and Rennicks (UK) Ltd - Our Esteemed Supply Chain Partners
Project Overview:
National Highways introduced an automatic license plate recognition (ALPR) system paired with roadside cameras to identify non-UK registered vehicles. When an overseas truck is detected, the ALPR system communicates with the VMS, triggering the display of roadworks information in the appropriate foreign language. This novel approach was first trialed in Cumbria, where significant road improvements were being carried out along the M6 north of Carlisle, focusing on the busy junction 44 roundabout.
Key Innovations:
Multilingual VMS Technology: The project involved equipping portable electronic VMS with an automatic license plate recognition (ALPR) camera. When a non-UK license plate was detected, the system activated and selected an appropriate foreign language message on the VMS. This innovative synergy allowed the ALPR camera to identify non-UK license plates, triggering the VMS to display messages in the drivers' native languages. This innovative blend of technologies ensured that continental truck drivers received real-time, tailored information to navigate road closures effectively.
Project Overview:
National Highways introduced an automatic license plate recognition (ALPR) system paired with roadside cameras to identify non-UK registered vehicles. When an overseas truck is detected, the ALPR system communicates with the VMS, triggering the display of roadworks information in the appropriate foreign language. This novel approach was first trialed in Cumbria, where significant road improvements were being carried out along the M6 north of Carlisle, focusing on the busy junction 44 roundabout.
Key Innovations:
Multilingual VMS Technology: The project involved equipping portable electronic VMS with an automatic license plate recognition (ALPR) camera. When a non-UK license plate was detected, the system activated and selected an appropriate foreign language message on the VMS. This innovative synergy allowed the ALPR camera to identify non-UK license plates, triggering the VMS to display messages in the drivers' native languages. This innovative blend of technologies ensured that continental truck drivers received real-time, tailored information to navigate road closures effectively.
Phases and Execution:
The innovation-driven initiative unfolded through a meticulously designed process:
The ALPR technology, stationed at the roadside, demonstrated its prowess by identifying foreign license plates.
The seamless communication between the ALPR system and VMS ensured that pertinent information was relayed instantly and efficiently to the drivers.
The pilot project took place in Cumbria, as part of the ongoing M6 improvement project. The focal point was the roundabout at junction 44, which experienced strategically timed overnight closures.
Positive Outcomes:
Technologically Empowered Communication: By utilising state-of-the-art ALPR and VMS technologies, the initiative provided an unprecedented level of communication to foreign truck drivers. The use of native languages ensured clear understanding, contributing to enhanced road safety.
Enhanced Safety and Efficiency: By providing accurate information in foreign languages, the initiative contributed to safer driving practices and more efficient navigation during roadworks.
Trailblazing Efficiency: The pioneering approach streamlined roadworks navigation for continental drivers. Accurate, language-specific information allowed for more efficient route planning, reducing congestion and optimising journeys.
Safeguarding Travel Experience: The fusion of technology and tailored communication heightened the overall travel experience. Drivers were empowered with real-time updates, minimizing disruptions and contributing to a safer and more pleasant journey.
Innovation in Action: The innovative use of technology to bridge language barriers and provide critical roadworks information exemplified the project teams commitment to pushing the boundaries of industry norms.
Collaborative Approach:
Partnerships with local councils, businesses, and law enforcement entities ensured that the innovative solution addressed regional needs comprehensively. The initiative's design was influenced by valuable stakeholder feedback and insights gained from previous projects commitment to proactive improvement.
According to Department for Transport (DfT) figures, foreign truck drivers are eight times more likely to be involved in a serious or fatal accident than their UK counterparts. With overseas trucks accounting for only one per cent of the total in the country, the proportion of accidents in which they are involved is far greater. Current figures show an increase of 14% when compared to figures from 2012, with trucks from Poland involved in the highest number of accidents, followed by those from Germany, Spain, France and then the Netherlands.
Inspector Steve Minnikin from Cumbria Police, commented, “We provided a lot of support around the A66 closures last year and we’re delighted to see that Highways England has responded to our feedback by trialing this idea by being more aware of language differences and being considerate in meeting their needs. We all believe this will assist the lorry drivers from other countries in rescheduling their journeys and avoid driving into a road closure with all the inconvenience that it can cause themselves and others.”
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