Bus priority in MOVA

The signal control method MOVA (microprocessor optimised vehicle actuation), has found application at a wide range of independently operated signal controlled junctions. Designed by the Transport Research Laboratory, it essentially offers improved signal control via a microprocessor system that analyses lane-by-lane detector data and controls the signal timings to optimise delay and stops or capacity if any approach becomes oversaturated. As part of its research for the UK Government, TRL has developed features to incorporate into MOVA that cater for emergency and/or priority vehicles. To test the new features, three sites at which bus priority has been provided have been studied, two in South West London and one just outside Winchester. In all cases, buses have benefited from the introduction of bus priority, albeit to varying degrees depending on site characteristics.