Highways Agency

Smarter network management

* Note safety barriers and fencing are not shown for clarity but would be in place in reality.

1. Motorway Access Management
   Access to the motorway from joining roads through the use of special signals on slip roads, to smooth the flow and reduce the effects of congestion
   
2. CCTV Cameras
   On every gantry to provide a complete view of conditions on the motorway and help spot incidents and breakdown more quickly.
   
3. Lightweight Gantries
   Aesthetic, less obtrusive gantries similar to those used in Holland. Spaced at 300-500m intervals.
   
4. New Variable Message
   Signs/MIDAS
   Next generation signs capable of showing text and pictograms to warn drivers of conditions on the road ahead, and provide back of queue protection.
   
5. Motorway Flow Management
   Managing the flow of traffic once on the motorway through the use of individual lane and speed signals, to smooth the flow and reduce the effects of congestion.
   
6. Flexible Use of Roadspace
   Providing the capability where appropriate, to run traffic on the hard shoulder in a controlled environment. For example during incidents or maintenance.
   
7. Safe Havens
   Providing refuges for vehicles in trouble to pull off the hard shoulder & wait for recovery.
   
8. Emergency Phones
   Providing an improved emergency telephone with better access for all road users. Likely to be sited at Safe Havens