Agenda item

            As part of the Local Transport Plan 2 there was a proposal to provide Variable Message Signs (VMS) on the approaches to the Silver Jubilee Bridge, to provide information on traffic conditions and proposed work. In order to get the most benefit from the system it needed to be the same systems as installed in neighbouring authorities, Liverpool City Council, Warrington BC, and Wirral BC. All these authorities had recently installed systems supplied by Siemens Traffic Controls Limited after obtaining tenders. Liverpool’s system included a sign within Halton on A562 Speke Road near Everite Road, Widnes.

            Initially, the VMS system would only be operated by Halton but by agreement, it was envisaged that it would be able to be utilised by neighbouring authorities and the Highway Agency, who would reciprocate with similar sharing arrangements for their signs. It was also planned to show the information displayed on the VMS on the website as part of supplying travel information to the public.

            The cost of supplying, installation and commissioning of six number variable message signs (VMS) from Siemens Traffic Controls Limited was £138,479.69. In addition, the Council would need to arrange traffic management for their installation and the provision of a mains electrical supply to each sign.

            The Sub-Committee also considered proposals for the installation of Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras at strategic points throughout the Borough. It was proposed to monitor the journey times across the Bridge on the routes from Speke Road and Watkinson Way to Runcorn and vice-versa. Initially, eight cameras would be needed but this number could be reduced by joint working with Cheshire Constabulary (subject to agreement and technical details).

            As part of the Traffic Management Act 2004, the Authority was required to monitor journey time information to ensure that it was able to supply information that may be requested by the Department for Transport, to prove that the Authority was fulfilling its duties. The data could also be used to support the Mersey Gateway Proposal, as information would be constantly gathered about journey times across the existing bridge.

            Prices had been obtained from Siemens Traffic Controls who had installed systems for Liverpool and Warrington for the supply, installation and commissioning of a journey time monitoring system including four number Automatic Number Plate Recognition cameras for £43,720.00. In addition, the Council would need to arrange traffic management for their installation and the provision of mains electrical supply to each camera.

            RESOLVED: That

(1)            procurement of Standing Orders 3.1 to 3.7 be waived to obtain equipment that is the same as neighbouring authorities to allow future joint use;

(2)       the quote from Siemens Traffic Controls for the supply, installation and commissioning of six number Variable Message Signs (VMS) for £138,479.69 be accepted;

(3)       the Authority agrees to pursue joint working with the Merseyside Authorities and Highways Agency for joint use of the Variable Message Signs;

(4)       the quote from Siemens Traffic Controls for the supply, installation and commissioning of Journey Time Monitoring System including Automatic Number Plate Recognition Cameras for £43,720.00 be accepted; and

(5)       the Authority agrees to pursue joint working with Cheshire Constabulary for joint use of Automatic Number Plate Recognition cameras.