Nottingham City Council plans to install more than 200 AI sensors and cameras to monitor traffic congestion and pollution levels.

Nottingham City Council has announced plans to install over 200 artificial intelligence (AI) sensors and number plate recognition cameras in order to measure traffic pollution levels and monitor congestion in the city. This cutting-edge technology will gather data 24/7, allowing traffic lights to be more responsive to the flow of traffic. The work to install the sensors and cameras is set to begin in February and is expected to be completed by November.

The council believes that this technology will play a vital role in helping the city become carbon neutral by 2028. The AI sensors will be able to identify each individual vehicle type, including heavy goods vehicles, coaches, cars, and bicycles. This will provide the council with valuable data on how different transport modes affect pollution levels in the city.

In addition to monitoring traffic flow, the council will also be trialling a Smart Junction at the intersection of Aspley Lane and A6514 Western Boulevard. The sensors in this trial area will make traffic lights more reactive to congestion levels, which will help reduce waiting times for drivers and improve the overall flow of traffic in the area. If the trial is successful, the council plans to roll out more Smart Junctions across the road network.

The technology being used in this project is being developed by AI firm VivaCity. The company plans to improve the technology over time, with the goal of recognizing more transport modes, such as mobility scooters and taxis. This will enable the council to make even more accurate decisions on future schemes and to reduce pollution in the heart of the city.

Councillor Audra Wynter, cabinet member for highways at Nottingham City Council, said: “Our city needs the best, latest technology to help us in our fight to become carbon neutral by 2028. “To help us to monitor traffic flow and analyse the behaviours of road users in the area, we’re looking forward to working with VivaCity to help make accurate decisions on future schemes and to reduce pollution in the heart of our city.”