New AI controlled traffic lights that give cyclists priority over cars are being trialled in the UK.The technology detects bikes up to 30m away from a junction, turning the traffic light green for the cyclist to cross the road and red for oncoming traffic.This means cyclists have a ‘smoother, uninterrupted’ and therefore safer, journey on their bikes’, says VivaCity, which developed the traffic management system.
The traffic lights have been installed on A34 Stratford Road, near Blyth Valley, Birmingham as a trial, with the AI system only switched on during busy periods.It’s hoped the project, overseen by Transport for West Midlands and Solihull Council, will cut the chance of collisions and waiting times at crossings.reports MailOnline.
If successful, the system could be introduced in across the West Midlands as part of efforts to reduce vehicle dependency.Mark Nicholson, the chief executive of VivaCity, told The Times that AI can identify what it sees ‘without any personal information’.Up Next The council can then build an algorithm for that junction to ensure cyclists or pedestrians are prioritised at certain times, for example at 3pm when children are walking home from school.
Transport Secretary Louise Haigh said the Labour government intends to invest ‘unprecedented levels of funding’ in cycling and walking to reduce the burden on the NHS.Meanwhile, Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands and WMCA chair, said: ‘Road safety is a top priority for me, and I want everyone to feel secure when cycling or walking.‘This project gives us a chance to see how Artificial Intelligence can make our roads safer by detecting cyclists and pedestrians and manage traffic signals to give them more time to cross safely.
More Trending Flights delayed and cancelled at Heathrow and Gatwick airports Boy, 17, arrested over TfL cyber attack with customers' bank details 'accessed' Man arrested for rape moments after being released early from prison Couple banned from even looking at their neighbour's home have charges dropped Read More Stories‘This is just one part of my plan to make our streets safer and encourage more people to cycle, meaning improved fitness, fewer traffic jams and cleaner air.’ Solihull Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Infrastructure, Cllr Ken Hawkins, said: ‘We want to do all that we can to encourage people to travel safely and sustainably across the borough. ‘The new sensors will help make the Monkspath to Blythe Valley active travel route a more attractive option for cyclists so they can travel quickly but safely on this key route.’ The system has also been introduced in Dublin.Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at [email protected] more stories like this, check our news page.
MORE : Boy, 17, arrested over TfL cyber attack with customers’ bank details ‘accessed’
MORE : First picture of ‘kind-hearted’ boy, 13, stabbed to death in his home
MORE : Boy, 13, stabbed to death in his own home
Sign Up for News UpdatesGet your need-to-know
latest news, feel-good stories, analysis and morePrivacy PolicyThis site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
