AI traffic monitoring system rolled out across Cumberland

Cumberland Council is introducing artificial intelligence-powered traffic monitoring technology to gain a clearer understanding of how people travel across the region and to help guide future transport improvements.

The new system uses intelligent sensors to anonymously monitor the movement of vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians along key routes. By gathering this information, the council aims to make better-informed decisions, improve traffic management and prioritise future investment in the local highway network.

The first installation is being carried out on Devonshire Street, where a smart camera connection will operate alongside a traffic sensor. The connection system is designed to function like a multi-socket fitted within an existing lighting column, allowing equipment to be installed without drilling into the structure. This approach speeds up installation while keeping disruption to a minimum.

A second sensor will also be introduced on Warwick Road to collect additional travel data, supporting efforts to better understand traffic patterns and improve the efficiency of the local road network.

Using artificial intelligence, the sensors analyse movement in real time to identify how roads and surrounding public spaces are being used. The council has emphasised that privacy has been built into the system, with all information collected anonymously and no video footage being retained.

Cumberland Councillor Denise Rollo, Executive Member for Sustainable, Resilient and Connected Places, said:

“This is a really positive step forward in how we use technology to improve our highways network. By using smart AI systems, we can better understand how people travel and focus on what matters most for our residents.

“It allows us to make informed decisions, reduce disruption and plan improvements more effectively, while also making sure we are using our resources wisely.”

The council says it will continue investigating how smart technology can be used to create safer, more efficient and more sustainable transport networks for communities across Cumberland.