Google Maps get traffic info

Posted on 23 Oct 2008 at 14:40

The UK Highways Agency is to share its traffic data with Google for use with the search giant's new Google Maps traffic feature.

This application works by superimposing a colour-coded layer of the average speeds on England's motorways and major 'A-road' network onto the existing Google Maps facility with different colours indicating the current speed of traffic.

Denise Plumpton, director of information at the Highways Agency said that the UK was the first country in Europe to share traffic data with Google: "This sort of project is a key part of our information strategy aimed at getting traffic information out to motorists where and when they need it," she said.

"We work regularly with third party organisations in order to get our information to as wide an audience as possible. We have also recently provided the BBC with access to our traffic cameras to allow road users to check the conditions on the internet before they leave. We look forward to working with other partners in the future."

The data, provided by the agency's National Traffic Control Centre in Birmingham, is also used to populate the Highways Agency's own Traffic England website. Using this site, drivers can see current and predicted driving conditions, view what is currently being displayed on electronic motorway signs and even tell the average speed between any two junctions on the motorway network.

The Highways Agency explained it provides its traffic information to Google in a Datex II format, which is a European standard developed specifically for road data information exchange and provides real-time traffic information and predictions based on past conditions, helping motorists to plan their journeys ahead to avoid congestion.

Author: Robert Jaques

Get more reviews, tutorials and in-depth advice, every month with Computer Shopper.
Click here to try 3 issues for £1

< Previous News : Software Next >

Be the first to comment on this article

You need to Login or Register to comment.