Already deployed in Manchester, Smart Junctions use artificial intelligence to improve traffic signal control efficiency by reducing waiting times at signals, which in turn reduces journey times and cuts pollution. This system requires reliable, low-latency communications which is typically achieved through fibre-optics connections to every signal. This can be prohibitively expensive to deploy at scale.
The Smart Junctions 5G project which is funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) builds on the existing Smart Junctions network by using a secure 5G small-cell network on a new set of smart junctions in Salford. Using 5G communications for inter-signal communications means fewer fibre-optics connections are required, making the system more cost effective. The installation of a small-cell 5G network also offers additional benefits such as enabling vehicle-to-infrastructure communication, supporting other connected infrastructure and mobility-based public services, and reducing the need for mounting additional hardware on buildings.
The project will also explore a new business case to promote capital investment into small-cell networks by incentivising the public sector to contribute with connectivity assets, which could be rented for use by Mobile Network Operators, as well as contributing to network densification to maximise the social value potential of digital infrastructure.
Smart Junction sensor images
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Find your best value ticket optionGet on board
We know that many people are concerned about the cost of living. TfGM wants to keep you informed of the best possible ways to travel affordably and sustainably.
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Visit the Business PortalDiscover the Business Portal
Supporting businesses, employees, clients and visitors travel sustainably and affordably.
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Find out more about the Cycle Hire sponsorship opportunitySponsorship opportunity for GM Cycle Hire
Is your brand interested in playing a role in GM’s first publicly operated cycle hire scheme?
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Learn more about the dogs on trams pilotDogs on trams pilot
You can travel with your dog on Metrolink as part of a trial
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Visit the planned improvement works pagePlanned engineering works on Metrolink
There are planned improvement works on Metrolink across selected lines throughout 2022. You can visit our dedicated webpage to find out how the works affect your journeys around Greater Manchester.
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Visit the free travel scheme pageFree travel for 48 hours for Ukrainians arriving in Greater Manchester
To help Ukrainian nationals arriving in Greater Manchester, Metrolink tram services, rail services and the majority of bus and coach services in the region are being provided free of charge.
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Find your best value ticket option
Get on board
We know that many people are concerned about the cost of living. TfGM wants to keep you informed of the best possible ways to travel affordably and sustainably.
-
Find out more about the Cycle Hire sponsorship opportunity
Sponsorship opportunity for GM Cycle Hire
Is your brand interested in playing a role in GM’s first publicly operated cycle hire scheme?
-
Visit the planned improvement works page
Planned engineering works on Metrolink
There are planned improvement works on Metrolink across selected lines throughout 2022. You can visit our dedicated webpage to find out how the works affect your journeys around Greater Manchester.
-
Visit the Business Portal
Discover the Business Portal
Supporting businesses, employees, clients and visitors travel sustainably and affordably.
-
Learn more about the dogs on trams pilot
Dogs on trams pilot
You can travel with your dog on Metrolink as part of a trial
-
Visit the free travel scheme page
Free travel for 48 hours for Ukrainians arriving in Greater Manchester
To help Ukrainian nationals arriving in Greater Manchester, Metrolink tram services, rail services and the majority of bus and coach services in the region are being provided free of charge.
