A proposal to introduce ramp metering to tackle tailbacks on the M25 and M23 sliproads in east Surrey has met with an enthusiastic response from local councils.
In a meeting with Reigate and Banstead Council and Tandridge District Council, the Highways Agency proposed numerous measures such as ramp metering as a solution to tackle congestion in the area.
John Phillips, transport and policy officer of Tandridge District Council, said the council was pleased to take part in the discussions and the joint working approach. He said congestion and tailbacks on the M25 were regular features in east Surrey, resulting in ‘serious congestion’.
‘One of Tandridge council’s main concerns is about the safety and convenience of the users of local roads which often become congested if there is a serious motorway problem,’ Mr Phillips added.
Martin Deller, spokesman for HA, agreed the proposal received a positive response and that ‘people are willing to work together’ – but he insisted talks were at a ‘very early stage’.
The HA also discussed using Active Traffic Management (ATM), which is currently being trialled on the M42 in the West Midlands. Elsewhere, ramp metering pilots are taking place on the M6 in Birmingham and M27 in Hampshire.
Other traffic-management schemes currently operating in Surrey include electronic loops under road surfaces and cameras which relay information to the regional control centre in Godstone.
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