Tees Valley to rollout congestion busting real-time traffic technology

Fleets operating across the Tees Valley area should expect increased traffic signal efficiency and reduced congestion as part of a new technology rollout across the region.

Tees Valley Combined Authority (TVCA) is set to deploy the Yunex Traffic's Fusion real-time adaptive control solution across areas like Middlesbrough, Darlington, Stockton-on-Tees, Hartlepool, Redcar and Cleveland.

Andrea Reacroft, digital transport programme delivery manager at Tees Valley Combined Authority, said the new system will automatically detect and issue alerts for any incidents out on the road networks, it will also be able to help improve bus service reliability, reduced delays, congestion and emissions.

Using a range of data sources, Fusion continuously monitors traffic and develops indicators of congestion and traffic disruption.

Reacroft added that the overall aim with the new system is to improve journey times for all modes of transport, including active travel and public transport.

So, for example, traffic signal timings can be optimised more efficiently to ensure active travel modes and cleaner air outcomes are prioritised.

TVCA is hoping to see similar benefits for the Tees Valley seen from Transport for London (TfL), which was an early adopter of the system.

Yunex Traffic currently manages and controls all of London’s 5,500 traffic signal sites.

Carl Eddleston, TfL's director of network management and resilience, said earlier this summer:  "London's road network plays a vital role in enabling millions of journeys each day and we're determined to ensure that people can walk, cycle, take the bus and drive as safely and efficiently as possible.

"This world-leading new traffic management system will be a game-changer for us in London.

"It will use new data sources to better manage our road network, tackle congestion, reduce delay for people choosing healthier travel options and improve air quality."