Michelle ThompsonAI technology is being deployed to forecast the areas where potholes might emerge on roads within a particular county.
West Berkshire Council is conducting a pilot program that involves utilizing technology to capture digital images of road conditions, aiming to predict potential locations where potholes or cracks might develop in the tarmac.
Special inspection vehicles equipped with cameras will record the state of road surfaces, including road markings and traffic signs. This initiative is expected to streamline highway repairs by making them more efficient.
The AI company Vaisala, involved in this project, suggests that the technology can also register information related to speed limit signs and the degradation of road edges.
‘Thrilling’
West Berkshire Council, responsible for overseeing roads in areas like Newbury, Thatcham, Hungerford, and Pangbourne, highlighted that the technology adoption would lead to reduced costs.
Councillor Denise Gaines, the executive member for highways, expressed enthusiasm for the project, labeling it as “exciting.”
She emphasized the benefits, stating, “It results in cost savings, enhanced safety, better resource allocation, and a more efficient, data-driven approach to road maintenance. It’s a significant step toward improving the quality and durability of road networks while minimizing disruptions and safety hazards – the results of which I am very much looking forward to seeing.”
However, specific details such as the duration of the pilot and its associated costs have been queried from the council.
