Search Car Reviews



See all makes



Putting UK's 'Miss Dotty' On The Spot

Congestion on motorways and main roads is so bad that the Highways Agency has brought in a special jam-buster to tackle the problem. Her name is Denise Plumpton, and she plans to reduce queues by improving traffic information given to drivers on dot matrix signs. She spoke exclusively to Auto Express.

By Mat Watson

18th January 2005

You're the first director of information at the Highways Agency. What's the reason for the creation of this new post?
Traffic congestion is getting worse, and the Highways Agency has been given a new job of managing traffic on trunk roads and motorways. We want to make better use of the information available to warn drivers about delays. Using the roads more effectively is the most sensible way to deal with congestion, rather than building new ones.

What will your role involve?
I Will be developing a strategy for improving the quality of information given to drivers about weather conditions, incidents and accidents on major trunk routes in the UK which could affect their journeys.

What are the main weaknesses of the current system and how will you address them?
At present, there are many factors which prevent drivers from getting the most appropriate information at the right time. I can't really say any more than that, but the Highways Agency must become more proactive in giving motorists enough warning to help them avoid any hold-ups. Effectively, it needs to become a 24/7 traffic operator.

Are there any new services or technology which will help you to achieve this?
Yes. The new generation of picture displaying message signs will allow us to give motorists a wider range of useful information. Also, more motorways will get the Motor Incident Detection and Automatic Signalling System (MIDAS), which uses sensors in the road to detect slow-moving traffic and possible jams.

Are you planning more campaigns using the dot matrix notice boards?
The 'Don't drive tired' and 'Don't hog the middle lane' campaigns proved successful, so we will be working with the Department for Transport and police to develop others.

What Next

For more breaking car news and reviews, subscribe to Auto Express magazine. We'll give you 6 issues for £1 and a free gift!

< Previous   Next >

Sponsored Results

0 Comment

Be the first to comment on this article

You need to register to post comments. Existing members can log in below to comment, otherwise click here to join.



Sponsored Results

- Advertisement -

Pictures

Sponsored Results

- Advertisement -