AGD Systems is proud to have supported the delivery of a pioneering pedestrian crossing at New College Worcester (NCW), a national residential school for blind and vision impaired young people. This innovative installation, believed to be the first of its kind in the UK, highlights how intelligent detection technology can play a vital role in improving accessibility, safety and independence for vulnerable road users.
At the heart of the Noel Duffy Pedestrian Crossing is a commitment to creating safer, more inclusive environments. By integrating AGD’s advanced pedestrian detection solutions and nearside signal and demand unit, including both Cone A and Cone B tactiles, the crossing provides a highly responsive and reliable system tailored to the needs of blind and partially sighted users. This enables students to interact confidently with crossing infrastructure in a way that reflects real-world conditions while maintaining the safety of a controlled environment.
For AGD Systems, this project demonstrates how smart sensing technology can actively support vulnerable road users. Our detection solutions are designed to accurately identify pedestrian presence and movement, helping to optimise crossing timings and ensure that individuals, particularly those with visual impairments, are given the time and confidence they need to cross safely. This is especially important in reducing uncertainty and stress, key barriers that often affect independent travel.
Located within the grounds of NCW, the crossing allows students to develop essential mobility skills in a realistic yet supportive setting. By working alongside other infrastructure companies, the project showcases how collaboration can unlock meaningful innovation in transport infrastructure.
“We are absolutely delighted with the crossing and incredibly grateful to everyone who supported the project. It will have a huge impact on our students and provide a unique training facility that we believe is the only one of its kind in the UK. It also allows other organisations and individuals to benefit from the facility by visiting our campus to practise their skills.”
Rachel Perks, Principal of NCW
Beyond the technical delivery, AGD Systems recognises the broader social impact of schemes like this. Vulnerable road users face disproportionate challenges in navigating everyday environments. Through continuous innovation in detection and sensor technology, AGD is committed to addressing these challenges, enabling safer crossings, improving accessibility, and supporting greater independence.
The crossing stands as a lasting tribute to Noel Duffy, whose career spanned more than 30 years in the assistive technology sector. As a key figure behind Dolphin Computer Access, he played a vital role in improving access to technology for blind and partially sighted people worldwide.
The Noel Duffy Pedestrian Crossing stands not only as a training facility, but as a model for how intelligent transport solutions can be designed with inclusivity at their core. It reflects AGD Systems’ ongoing mission to use technology to make roads safer for everyone, ensuring that no user is left behind.