City gets 'smart' traffic lights

The traffic lights are linked to a central computer

Motorists in Preston have been warned of possible disruption to traffic as a new computer system is installed to control the city's traffic lights.

It is the first time the technology - which aims to cut congestion - has been used in the UK.

The Urban Traffic Management and Control System will allow all of the traffic lights in the centre of Preston to communicate with a central computer.

It will adjust the lights to respond to how many vehicles are on each street.

Lancashire County Council said the system would eventually allow motorists to get up-to-date information on parking and congestion via the internet.

But the council warned the signals would be less effective for the next two to three weeks while the system is installed.

The council said it regretted any delays, but hoped the new system would be running smoothly by the end of the school holidays.