Hi-tech information signs are being investigated by Brentwood Council as part moves to improve the flow of traffic around the town.

Chairman of the Environment Panel, Cllr Dominic Good, said the idea is looked into after consultations with Brentwood Chamber of Commerce, the Federation of Small Businesses and other interest groups.

He said: "One of the things that frustrates local motorists and causes problems for residents is the need to identify which car parks have spaces in them and which are full.

"At the moment that involves the motorists driving around the town centre visiting each car park in turn until one with spaces is found or alternatively queuing for a considerable period of time at one which is full.

"The environmental impact of either situation is not good which is why we are examining a scheme which works successfully in Southend-on-Sea where signs on the approach roads to the town centre advise motorists which car parks have spaces in them and the best route to reach these car parks."

However, it is still unclear how much this kind of system would cost and whether the borough can afford it.

Cllr Good said: "Officers are looking at what technology would be needed and what the likely costs would be and will then report to councillors."

Published Friday September 10, 2004

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