This report describes the evaluation of a demonstration scheme using new technology to give priority to buses at three junctions in Southampton. The scheme was implemented and evaluated as part of the ENTRANCE project. This report describes the evaluation of the public transport priority application in Southampton. The aim was to reduce delays to buses at traffic signals and to improve the reliability of services, thereby improving the attractiveness of public transport relative to the private car. Buses were given priority at three junctions controlled by the SCOOT Urban Traffic Control system. `Footprint' loop detectors were installed in the road on five of the links approaching the three junctions. When buses are detected by the loops, the SCOOT software gives buses priority at the junction either by extending an existing green phase in the traffic signals or by calling up a new green phase. The strategy selected within SCOOT was one that gave buses relatively high priority over other traffic. The report concludes that this method of giving priority to buses in Southampton was successful in meeting the objectives of reducing delay, emissions and improving fuel consumption of buses using the priority system. By optimising the priority settings it is anticipated that net benefits in terms of fuel consumption, emissions and costs could be obtained for the other traffic in the area. (A)
Abstract