A new fund giving councils the opportunity to take advantage of emerging technologies in order to improve driver journeys was launched this month. The Department of Transport (DfT) has invited local authorities to apply for their share of the two million pounds in a bid to help develop their projects. There are a number of potential technologies available to aid authorities, including vehicle communication tools as well as roadside sensors capable of giving drivers real-time traffic information. Councils are also expected to look at how technology could help aid in warning drivers of changing weather and traffic conditions, giving them the opportunity to plan ahead.æ This should allow for safer, quicker and more efficient journeys across the board. Westminster City Council were a participant in a similar scheme and used the funds to build an app that allowed local drivers to find empty parking spaces in central London and to pay for the space directly. Councils will need to apply for the funding by the end of September. 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. 'Britain has a proud history of innovation and I am delighted that councils will be able to use this money to develop systems to make journeys easier and safer.î Bids are expected to be between £30,000 and £300,000 and councils requesting funds will be required to contribute at least 5 per cent of the costs for their project. The deadline for applications is Friday 30th September, with the winning bids to be announced in November. Schemes are planned to be completed by March 2018.
