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The system known as SCOOT (Split Cycle Offset Optimisation Technique)
will initially be introduced on Oundle Road, between its junction
with Shrewsbury Avenue and the Town Rail Bridge, and on London Road
from Glebe Road to Town Bridge.
The traffic control system works
using loops in the road which detect traffic levels. This
information feeds into the control room at Bridge House and is used
to adjust traffic signal timings at individual junctions and to
coordinate a number of junctions along a route. It aims to reduce
the amount of time motorists spend waiting at traffic lights to cut
congestion, improve journey times and reduce CO2 emissions.
As the system expands operators will
monitor and manage traffic flows, reacting to events such as road
accidents, road works and other planned events by adjusting traffic
signal timings to reduce traffic congestion.
The system has been designed by
Peterborough City Council working in partnership with Atkins.
Siemens Traffic has been contracted to supply and install the
system.
Councillor Peter Hiller, cabinet
member for neighbourhoods, housing and community development, said:
"The system being introduced in Peterborough is similar to others
used in major towns and cities across the UK which are shown to
improve journey times by between eight and 12 per cent.
"As the city grows it is essential
our roads are able to cope with an increase in traffic. This system
will improve traffic flow and reduce congestion on two very busy
routes into the city centre from the south of Peterborough. Looking
ahead we would also like to introduce the system on other key
routes."
David Farquhar, head of environment,
transport and engineering for Peterborough City Council, added: "The
city council has been working with Atkins over the past two years to
bring this project to fruition. The new system will allow us to use
information passed to us about traffic levels to tailor the traffic
signals to give motorists using London Road and Oundle Road a
smoother journey in and out of the city centre.
"With higher than usual traffic
levels anticipated in the coming months on these routes whilst
essential maintenance work continues on the Frank Perkins parkway,
the system will better equip us to keep traffic flowing. Delays are
still likely due to the volume of traffic using this route. However,
we will be able to manage traffic levels far more effectively."
June 2009 -
Peterborough UK Community Website
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