• Innovative smart sensor technology is being tested on Solihull’s A34 Stratford Road in a bid to make busy crossings safer for cyclists and pedestrians.

Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), part of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), and Solihull Council have installed the ground-breaking technology at a toucan crossing near Blythe Valley.

These sensors, developed by VivaCity, detect cyclists 20-30 meters away from the crossing compared to standard technology. This early detection enables the traffic signals to go green quicker, giving cyclists a smoother, uninterrupted journey on their bikes.

The trial project aims to tackle several challenges including the need to accurately detect different users approaching the crossing at varying speeds.

VivaCity’s sensors use intelligent video analytics and advanced algorithms to accurately and anonymously classify users and avoid false detections, which could otherwise disrupt traffic flow. This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote active travel, the collective term for cycling, wheeling and walking, and offer them greater priority over motor vehicles. By detecting cyclists earlier, the sensors both help reduce the chance of collisions and reduce waiting times at crossings. This not only improves safety but also encourages more people to consider cycling as a convenient and stress-free option for their daily journeys.

Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands and WMCA chair, said: “Road safety is a top priority for me, and I want everyone to feel secure when cycling or walking. This project gives us a chance to see how Artificial Intelligence can make our roads safer by detecting cyclists and pedestrians and manage traffic signals to give them more time to cross safely.

“This is just one part of my plan to make our streets safer and encourage more people to cycle, meaning improved fitness, fewer traffic jams and cleaner air.”

Peter Mildon, COO of VivaCity, said: “We’re excited to see our technology being used to support active travel initiatives in Solihull. Our smart sensors are specifically designed to enhance the efficiency and safety of road networks.”

“Our aim is to set a new standard of road safety across the UK, including in the West Midlands. We are dedicated to making journeys safer for everyone and look forward to continued collaboration with TfWM.”

Solihull Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Infrastructure, Cllr Ken Hawkins, said, “We want to do all that we can to encourage people to travel safely and sustainably across the borough. The new sensors will help make the Monkspath to Blythe Valley active travel route a more attractive option for cyclists so they can travel quickly but safely on this key route.”

This pilot marks the first use of such sensors for this purpose in the region, and it is expected to serve as a model for future projects aimed at reducing vehicle dependency and improving the quality of life for all road users in the West Midlands.