M6 J21A-26 Traffic Study
Microwave Radar Sensors
The background
Under the SMP Alliance, Costain needed to carry out a traffic study to inform the decision making in relation to planned diversions for the NEAR scheme on the M6 J21A-26. This 10 mile stretch of motorway with 22 new emergency refuge areas (ERAs), also incorporated CCTV and stopped vehicle detection to enhance safety and improve traffic monitoring.
Scope & solution
The M6 J21A-26 scheme utilised microwave traffic sensors mounted on Mobile VMS solar-powered intelligent platforms (no additional fuel sources were required due to solar optimisation). These sensors provided speed, count, classification, vehicle gap and headway analysis, using bi-directional flow across all lanes.
The dynamic diversion system can control traffic flow on the mainline and make the best use of road space and diversion routes. The microwave radar data is all recorded and analysed through our JamLogic software, the same software platform used on the Alliance M6 project alongside the journey time provision. Having one platform for the control and management of critical roadside data is crucial. The system provides full reporting for the client.
Outcome
The data and reporting available through JamLogic was critical to the decision-making process in relation to planning the most effective diversions.
We also provided a detailed baseline study of traffic on the M6 21A-26 in advance of the scheme commencement, assisting the Traffic Management team in evidencing an additional hour of overnight closure opportunity. This was incredibly beneficial to the scheme, allowing greater efficiencies and timely completion of works (Spring 2025).