Earlier this month we met with Julia Lopez MP, Minister of State for Media, Data, and Digital Infrastructure, in Salford Crescent in Greater Manchester to explore the future of transport through a private 5G network trial.

Joined by our Smart Junctions 5G partners, Weaver Labs and Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM), we showcased cutting edge traffic signal technology designed to reduce congestion and emissions in the Manchester area.

The 5G network enhances our existing Smart Junctions project – an AI-based traffic signal optimisation system, currently being deployed in Manchester, which has already proven to decrease journey times by up to 23%. By using an edge-based 5G small cell network, we are decreasing infrastructure cost for the connection of the sensors at every junction. Critically, the system requires low-latency communications to achieve its goal – making small cell 5G the perfect technology to deliver this saving.

TfGM is exploring the further benefits of adding 5G to the product, to the public sector and beyond, including removing the need to mount hardware to existing infrastructure. Also, by providing a new business case to promote capital investment into 5G Private Networks, TfGM is incentivising the public sector to contribute with connectivity assets, which could be rented for use by Mobile Network Operators.

Julia Lopez MP commented:

“It was fantastic to see this cutting-edge 5G technology in action and the positive impact it’s having cutting pollution and making getting around Manchester easier. We’re keen that what we learn about the benefits of smart traffic technology is shared across the UK – and this is one of many innovative projects we’re funding to pioneer new ways for 5G to improve lives.”

Peter Boulton Head of Highways at TfGM added:

“DCMS 5G Smart Junctions project is a great opportunity for TfGM and Salford (as the testbed location) to deliver on our policy objectives. To achieve GM decarbonisation and green objectives, we must utilise innovative digital & technologies to maximise the efficiency of our highway infrastructure. With a move toward a data driven approach on both infrastructure & connected vehicles to help us better understand and manage the city region. We are looking to change the focus beyond improving car journeys at traffic signals, improving the experience to other road users such as pedestrians/cyclist and public transport users.

Working in partnership with SMEs the project’s learnings will help TfGM better understand the opportunities of this technology, building a lasting connectivity corridor for future technology trials – the Smart Junctions project could offer a blueprint to be replicated and scaled across the Greater Manchester region and the UK.”

Mark Nicholson, CEO and Co-Founder at VivaCity, said:

“Working alongside Weaver Labs and TfGM has powered real change in the Manchester area. Through smarter signal control, we have a huge opportunity to reduce CO2 emissions and improve air quality. We look forward to working more closely with Julia and central and local governments across the UK to make our data-driven  smart, safe and sustainable vision for transport a reality.”

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Discover the future of traffic signal control and learn more about how our Smart Junctions solution can reduce journey time. Or visit our traffic monitoring solution page and learn more about what makes our AI-powered computer vision technology unique. If you have any questions or would like to organise a free demo, get in touch with our team now.

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