Tactical Metro Deployment: High-Performance Signalling Over 48 Hours

Challenge

Situated at the bustling intersection where Vauxhall Bridge converges with Millbank in the heart of Central London, Yunex Traffic were tasked with upgrading a junction controller box to allow for better cycle movement.

Collaborating with Red Wilson Associates, they wanted an agile solution that allowed the works be completed in a short timescale, minimising impact on the public and allowing their works to be delivered efficiently. The sheer volume of pedestrians, vehicles and cyclists at the site required the adoption of the safest and most efficient signalling solution, effectively ruling out conventional portable signals.

Adding to the complexity, the project had a tight 48-hour completion window, requiring an agile and trouble-free installation process.

Solution

The scheme was carefully designed in coordination with Red Wilson Associates and the traffic management plan was delivered by Highway Safety Management and Renteq Highways.

Aiming to address the project’s unique requirements, our professional services team devised a solution that comprised of 32 Metro units, incorporating 8 pedestrian crossings and dedicated cycle lane signals. The signals utilised banned U-turn, banned Left turn and Except Cycles regulatory signs and replicated the existing permanent signals layout.

The Metro system was selected for its high sophistication, being a cable-free temporary signal system that can be installed without specialized lifting equipment and without the need for working at height. Metro leverages cutting-edge radio technology and employs multi-faceted safety lamp and communication monitoring protocols, ensuring, reliable and safe operation even in the most challenging urban environments. Notably, Metro incorporates ultra-low power components, including radar, radio, and controllers, powered by premium AGM batteries, which consistently achieve long run times.

Outcome

The agility of the Metro system was exemplified as it was swiftly installed in a mere four hours by a small four-person crew, all accomplished without necessitating road closures. Once operational, the system was further enhanced by the use of a CCTV camera, enabling the professional services team to monitor the site remotely.

The Metro system required no interventions throughout its 48-hour service period and was efficiently removed once the works were complete. This project demonstrated once again that Metro is the ideal solution for short to medium-term deployments, particularly in challenging urban settings, setting a new standard for efficiency and safety in traffic control solutions.