Government creates £2 million road technology funding

The Government has invited councils to apply for part of a £2 million fund created to encourage new technology to be used on roads.

Some of the proposals are likely to include technology that allows vehicles to communicate with each other, and roadside sensors to provide drivers with live traffic information.

The Government expects bids from councils to range from £30,000 to £300,000, and around 5% of the cost of the proposal is expected to be covered by the council.

Roads minister, Andrew Jones, said: “I want to deliver better, more enjoyable journeys and this £2 million fund will help councils invest in new technology to enhance the experience of driving.”

However, a spokesperson for the AA said the fund is only a “small step in the right direction” and that councils may not bother to apply because of the limited funds available.

They said: “£2 million doesn’t seem like very much, but it’s good to see connected technology being encouraged. If it helps to show technology can make a real impact on congestion and accident rates, then it’s a welcome start, but this money is not going to help fill potholes which, you could argue, is what councils should be focusing on.”

Councils in England have until Friday 30 September at 5pm to apply for funding by pitching project ideas. Chosen councils that have been awarded funding will be announced in November, with schemes expected to be completed by March 2018.