The role of Intelligent Transport Systems in Network and Environmental Management and policy development in Leicester (UK)

Leicester City Council identified traffic as the main source of air pollution with adverse impacts on health. The Intelligent Transport System provides a rich source of monitored, real-time and archived traffic data, from the Urban Traffic and Management Control and Automatic Classified Vehicle Counting systems. Data from the Air Quality Monitoring Stations, roadside pollution monitors, weather stations and the meteorological services have been integrated using Air Quality Monitoring and Modelling Systems. “Nowcasts” and “Forecasts” of air pollution and noise estimates are being developed to influence public choice on time/mode of travel and assist in the management of the road network in an environmentally friendly manner to satisfy the requirements of the Traffic Management Act, the Environment Act, Local Transport Plan, Access to Environmental Information Directive and the Aarhus Agreement. The introduction of “WebServices” and “Open Systems Architecture” with Geographical Information System, together with the MESSAGE Project´s `Grid enabled´ “e-Science” infrastructure (including pervasive sensors), will enhance the “Instrumented City” concept and improve the assessment of the impact of traffic on air and noise quality, the environment and health, as well as informing the Climate Change Strategy and the City´s Carbon Footprint via the “4M” Project.