An innovative Vehicle-Activated Sign (VAS) system from SWARCO Traffic Ltd that is remotely monitored and controlled is helping increase the safety of schoolchildren and reduce maintenance costs for Cornwall Council.

SWARCO has installed 16 of its signs at three school sites across the county – six VAS at both St Stephens Primary School in Launceston and Grampound Primary School, along with four signs at Bodmin College – to advise drivers of the advisory 20 mph speed limit during school times.

SWARCO’s innovative remote monitoring system is an easy to use web-based software which allows the council to set timetables, on/off times and set temporary speed limits on school roads. Any faults that should occur, such as communications, power or LED failures, can be notified and viewed with the touch of a button ensuring that the safety-critical signs remain in optimum condition whilst reducing manual maintenance and engineering costs.

Mike Green, ITC Operations Officer at Cornwall Council, says that SWARCO’s reliability and experience makes them a valuable partner: “We have used SWARCO technology on a number of installations across the county. Their products are both reliable and high quality. Similarly, their after care and customer service is of a very high standard; they are always quick to provide us with support should we require it.

“The new signs have allowed us to monitor and manage the performance of the school signs, as well as improving safety on the roads close to the schools by displaying the advisory speed limit for passing vehicles. We can also now receive notifications via the remote monitoring system so that we are immediately aware of any issues and can deal with these efficiently.”

The work was completed in partnership with SSE Enterprise Contracting, responsible for the installation and maintenance of street lighting, traffic signals and illuminated street signs for Cornwall Council. The three parties enjoy a well-established and long-term working relationship.

Tel: 01748 824624 or visit www.swarco.com for more information.