New, active luminous road markings are being trialled.

The new road safety idea is being tested on roads in Portsmouth by Colas.

The Flowell crosswalks and cycle crossings technology has been developed by the company.

Initially  trialled at various sites in France, the initial feedback has shown it to be very beneficial.

Stepping out

The new crossing in Portsmouth, which has been fully funded by Colas, lights up when triggered by sensors.

It can also adapt according to traffic levels and needs via an interactive road management system. For example, it can be adapted to give priority to certain vehicles during specific time times of day or allocate space for a dedicated use. For example, this could be a temporary outdoor dining space for restaurants.

Ian Gibson, director of asset contracting at Colas, says the new product is based on their “extensive technological expertise in transport infrastructure”. He continues that following laboratory testing, “it is now entering a trial phase in real life conditions”. They “look forward to sharing the results of this trial with the industry”.

Lighting up safety

The solution is made up of panels comprising of LEDs encapsulated in a multilayer substrate which are connected to the electrical network.

They can be glued on or embedded into pavement, which preserves the surface’s initial grip and skid resistance.

The site in Portsmouth will be monitored to determine its impact on behaviour. This will help determine how it could improve road, rail and airport infrastructure in the UK and around the world.

Cllr Lynne Stagg, Portsmouth City Council, says: “We’re always looking for new ways to improve road safety and I’m delighted we’re the first place in the UK to use this innovative new technology.

“We chose this crossing because it’s very busy particularly at night with all the bars and restaurants. We want to make the crossing more visible and encourage more people to cross there safely.”