Improving the port experience

​​​​​​​

Intelligent Variable Message Sign (VMS) technology from SWARCO Traffic Ltd is helping to better manage traffic flow at the newly upgraded Southampton Ocean Cruise Terminal. 

Five SWARCO VMS have been installed to advise drivers on lane information, managed via a local control system so that messages can be adjusted in-line with traffic flow. The signs are equipped with energy efficient LEDs capable of displaying full colour text and images with no restrictions. Scheduled messages can be programmed, or emergency messages displayed with ease

The capacity at Southampton Ocean Cruise Terminal has significantly increased following a £6 million upgrade project undertaken by GRAHAM. The Terminal can now handle larger ships and manage increased volumes of traffic from the additional cruise passengers. 

Jim Armour, Contracts Manager at GRAHAM, said: “We were impressed with SWARCO’s experience of working in the port and harbour industry, and its track record in guiding drivers with clarity. The VMS technology delivers reliability, flexibility and ease of use, and it is supporting us in smoothly managing the flow of traffic.”

“We pride ourselves on providing the highest quality VMS in the industry,” says Mark Hickmott, Head of Operations and Projects at SWARCO Traffic. “We are pleased to help make traffic management as seamless and stress free as possible at the port.”

Installation of the signs was completed in July 2019. This contract follows SWARCO Traffic’s successful work at the Port of Dover, playing a key role in the £85 million Traffic Management Improvement scheme to better manage and control vehicles through a new freight holding facility at the port to remove more than 4km of queuing traffic from Kent’s highways.