New state-of-the-art traffic lights that have been specifically designed for cyclists and use video and thermal imaging detectors to distinguish between cyclists and other vehicles have been switched on in Liverpool. Editor Alec Peachey spoke to Amey's principal project manager - consulting and strategic infrastructure - James Leeming, about the scheme. Cyclists are given a five second head start over other vehicles at two of the city's busiest junctions. The system works by displaying a green cycle light for five seconds before the full green traffic signal. According to Leeming, this gives cyclists increased viability and helps ensure they are seen by other road users. He said: "Cyclists are detected using the latest thermal imaging detectors (ThermiCams). These detectors can tell the difference between cyclists and other vehicles by the heat footprint they give off. One of the benefits of being able to automatically detect cyclists is that the advance cycle lights are not used when there are no cyclists, therefore avoiding delays to other road users."
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