Traffic jams will become a thing of the past if staff at the Essex Traffic Information Centre get their way

The new centre uses hi-tech equipment to monitor traffic flow, adjust traffic lights and keep motorists informed

The centre, which is the first of its kind in the country, cost £500,000 to set up and will cost another £2m over the next three years.

It was officially opened by Essex County Council on Monday.

Essex County Council deputy chairman Gerard McEwen said: "This demonstrates our commitment to keeping Essex moving and moving safely."

The latest mobile phone technology makes the system work smoothly

Staff at the centre can use it to download images from traffic cameras around the county. Then, if there are queues, they can devise diversions or warnings, which can be sent by phone - almost like a text message - straight to signs on surrounding roads.

They can also change traffic signals. For example, if there is a build-up of traffic on one road, they can alter the traffic light timings to ease the problem.

But the centre does not just worry about cars. It has a bus tracker system so it knows if they are running late. It will warn passengers by sending messages to bus stops and will also be able to free up bus routes when one is running late.

While some of the technology is countywide, other parts are only working in Chelmsford. But Brian Goodwin, Essex highways and transportation manager, said: "Our aim is to deliver a detailed service to the whole of Essex eventually."

Published Wednesday July 21, 2004

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