22.07.19
AI technology fund of £2 million announced to identify UK potholes
Innovative artificial intelligence (AI) technology will be used to help improve the condition of local roads, following the announcement of DfT funding announced totalling £2 million to develop the most thorough understanding ever of Britain’s road markings.
By analysing the quality of near 100,000 miles of road, the department will obtain a clearer-than-ever picture of where investment is needed. Through this understanding, the department will be able to advise local councils where they could invest in areas that may need it most, improving road user safety on some of our busiest local roads.
DfT will undertake the health-check in close partnership with the Local Condition Roads Innovation Group (LCRIG). AI technology that will review close to 150 million high definition (HD) images of our roads and the analysis will provide a clear assessment of where investment by councils could be utilised.
Poor road markings pose an issue for all road users, from cyclists to motorists. Poor road marking quality can make it difficult for road users to distinguish whether they can park on the side of the road, overtake or know how wide a lane is.
This means road user safety can be put at risk due to a lack of clarity. By having a stronger road map of where markings need improvement, these issues can be rectified.
The funding will also go towards a survey of councils around pavement and footway conditions, which will help outline where funding could be targeted.
The department is also planning to assess sections of the National Cycle Network, building on the audit undertaken by cycling and walking charity Sustrans, to better understand the condition of the network.
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