High-tech solution to UK traffic problem

The UK Highways Agency is to use IT to increase road safety.

Vehicles will have computers built into their dashboards so messages can be picked up from roadside radio beacons. Information can then be relayed to drivers to warn them of hazards ahead and whether they need to slow down or take an alternative route.

Terry Sullivan, group manager at the agency's traffic systems signing division, said the microwave beacons - currently being developed with GEC Marconi - will be placed at the side of roads.

Jaguar, Lucas and Rover will take care of the in-vehicle computers while the Highways Agency will deal with the infrastructure and links to existing information sources.

Sullivan said: "Receivers can be placed on windscreens, or even in the braking system of vehicles, which can send or receive data. Whether it's data on traffic congestion or the weather, the information can then be used to inform drivers on what's happening ahead."

He continued: "The receivers used will operate at 5.8GHz and are being developed to ensure European capabilities."

Trials will begin on the M4 corridor and the M25 between Gatwick and Heathrow airports at the start of next year. There is also a plan for dedicated traffic lanes for specific forms of transport.