Successful M100 Wireless Vehicle Detection System implementation in Blackburn

Many councils are regularly faced with issues when using traditional inductive loops. Whilst reliable in themselves, loops are vulnerable to unexpected failure caused by road degradation and utilities streetworks; digging up and cutting through loop tails. This can be a problem, particularly where loops are used as part of traffic light control systems and consistent operation is vital to ensure the safe and congestion free running of the road.

Capita Symonds working on behalf of Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council were therefore delighted with the opportunity to install a new alternative technology presented by Golden River Traffic.

The M100 Wireless Vehicle Detection System which has full UK type approval has recently been installed at three sites in Blackburn. The system uses small magnetometer sensors in the middle of the carriageway in place of traditional loops. This small, independent unit which has an expected life of ten years, communicates via wireless technology to an access point sited on a nearby pole. This then works via an M120 contact closure card to inform the traffic light controller that vehicles are present.

Installation of the M100 system is quicker and more cost effective than loops providing significant cost savings of over 35% on a typical signalized junction. As a result of greater reliability and reduced replacement costs this is further increased to over 45% when compared over a ten year life.