AGD is thrilled to partner with Norfolk County Council and Vision Norfolk for the first trial installation of the improved tactile cone, Cone B. This innovative device has been installed at the junction of Magdalen Street and Edward Street in Norwich, with valuable input from Vision Norfolk, whose nearby team has provided insightful feedback throughout the trial.

Cone B represents a significant evolution of the traditional spinning tactile cone. Its enhanced spline design offers a more pronounced texture, delivering a clearer tactile response for pedestrians. This improvement is particularly beneficial for individuals with reduced fingertip sensitivity—whether due to age, illness, or the need to wear gloves in cold weather—making road crossings more accessible for vulnerable pedestrians.

“I’m thrilled that Norfolk is taking part in this trial of a system which in the future could really support those with visual impairments across the UK. We’re ambitious for Norfolk, and being at the forefront of new technology like this helps us to ensure that we’re providing the best for people across Norfolk as early as possible.”

Cllr Graham Plant, Norfolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways, Infrastructure, and Transport

Kieran Corbally, Senior Commercial Manager at AGD, also shared his excitement:
“ We are delighted to have our award-winning Cone B installed as part of a trial in Norfolk. The positive feedback we’ve received has been fantastic, and we look forward to further installations and continuing to support innovative solutions for improved traffic management and road safety for vulnerable pedestrians.“

Feedback from Vision Norfolk highlights the tangible benefits of Cone B, with users finding the improved tactile cone significantly easier to use, even while wearing gloves in challenging weather conditions. Vision Norfolk is optimistic about seeing more installations, which will further enhance accessibility in Norwich.

To learn more about the impact of this small but meaningful innovation, listen to Kieran and Mark Smith from Vision Norfolk discuss the project and its real-world benefits for pedestrians with impaired vision on BBC Radio.

AGD is delighted to showcase its updated AGD650 AI Multi Modal Detector, setting a new standard for intelligent traffic management.

With advanced tracking capabilities for buses now fully integrated and trials underway to extend functionality to bicycles and heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), the AGD650 is positioned as a game-changer in modern traffic detection.

Originally designed for stop-line detection, the AGD650 has evolved to support a wide range of critical traffic management applications. These include optimising urban traffic flow with Split Cycle Offset Optimisation Technique (SCOOT), enhancing junction safety through all-red signal phases and providing precise vehicle detection to manage turn-specific signal control.

The detector’s capabilities also extend to monitoring exit blocking to prevent bottlenecks and prioritising public transport with bus lane detection, making it an invaluable tool for improving efficiency and safety on increasingly busy roads.

The updated AGD650 retains its state-of-the-art optical technology, ensuring the same level of accuracy and reliability that traffic managers trust while delivering new functionality to meet evolving urban transport challenges. The addition of bus detection and the ongoing trials for cyclists and HGVs reflect AGD’s commitment to building inclusive, sustainable and forward-thinking traffic solutions.

Kieran Corbally, Senior Commercial Manager at AGD, emphasised the significance of this update:

“The enhanced AGD650 represents an important leap forward in traffic management technology. By expanding its capabilities to include applications such as bus lane prioritisation and SCOOT, we are empowering cities with the tools they need to tackle modern traffic challenges head-on. The trials for cyclists and HGVs further demonstrate our dedication to delivering comprehensive solutions for all road users.”

AGD Systems Ltd is set to exhibit at Highways 2024 as part of The Traffic Group, alongside its sister companies, Traffic Group Signals and MAV Systems Ltd. This marks an exciting first-time collaboration between these leading traffic management and vehicle detection solution providers, showcasing their complementary technologies under one umbrella.

The Traffic Group’s presence at Highways 2024 underscores its commitment to innovation and integrated traffic management solutions. AGD Systems Ltd, known for its advanced intelligent traffic system technologies, will display its latest developments in vehicle monitoring systems. Traffic Group Signals, recognised for their portable traffic signal solutions, and MAV Systems Ltd, specialists in innovative ANPR cameras , will also highlight their cutting-edge products.

This collaborative exhibition is aimed at demonstrating how The Traffic Group’s suite of products can enhance road safety, traffic flow, and intelligent transport systems, making Highways 2024 a key event for industry professionals to explore the future of traffic technology.

Peter Michael Hutchinson

It is with deepest regrets that we announce that Peter (Pete) Hutchinson, Managing Director of The Traffic Group, passed away on May 30, 2024 following a short illness. He is survived by his wife Rachel and their three children Kerrie, Ciara and Conor, brother Phil and his parents Mike and Hilary.

A Chartered Physicist, Pete co-founded AGD Systems Limited in 1991 with his father Mike, and his uncle Mark. Pete was the motivating force for the advancement of AGD’s radar detection technologies, their application in the Intelligent Traffic Systems (ITS) market, and the international expansion of the business. He successfully led AGD to its current prominent position in the ITS sector.

Under his AGD Systems leadership, Pete was involved in several strategic acquisitions, leading to the formation of The Traffic Group, and was instrumental in the award of several patents and three Queens Awards for Innovation. His commitment to building a sustainable business was also recognised with two Green Apple awards for environmental best practice. His approach to continuous improvement enabled his employees to thrive, creating a dynamic and highly collaborative workplace where everyone is valued.

One of his greatest joys, after his family, was his work, often remarking “if you enjoy your job, you never work a day in your life!”

Pete was a widely respected figure with the industry, having brought about positive change through working within TOPAS to revise specifications for industry products, and more recently a leading author in the latest temporary traffic signal guidance for the traffic management sector. He was driven by a purpose to make products, roadside installations and road works safer and more efficient for road users, road workers and the general public.

Outside of work, Pete was a passionate cyclist, having won several national and international competitions in cyclo-cross. He had an unbounded enthusiasm for motorsports, reflected in his choice of cars which were his pride and joy. A considerate, quick-witted and intelligent man, Pete was popular within his local community and will be greatly missed by all who knew and worked with him.

The Traffic Group remains a family business, in the hands of Mike, Mark, Phil and Maxine Hutchinson, and continuity plans are in place to minimise disruption to its customers and partners.

Extending its global status as one of the UK’s most successful manufacturers of ITS products, AGD has achieved NEMA certification for its best-selling AGD650 Stop-Line Detector.

Imperative for customers in both the USA and Canada, the United States National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) testing is designed to assess the suitability of electrical equipment for use in specific applications and environments. Customers can feel assured that products which pass the intensive testing process deliver enhanced safety as they’ve been tested to offer reliability and performance under various controlled environmental conditions and operational stresses.

The AGD650 smart, optical and dynamic environment stop-line detector was subjected to a series of rigorous electrical, mechanical, and environmental tests. The assessments included voltage tests at high temperatures of up to +74°C and down to -34°C and external icing. The AGD650 was also subjected to electrical transient tests at high and low temperatures and verified to ensure protection against the ingress of water and electrical power surges.

Brian Cherry, Commercial Manager at AGD Systems, explains why reliability and quality assurance are the first and foremost considerations when developing products for a global audience.

“The AGD650 has been expertly designed to improve safety at intersections and junctions by delivering robust vehicle detection data at the stop-line of multi-lane approaches. Consistency is imperative for this AI-powered product to ensure ultra- reliable results, and it already met all relevant standards for the UK, Europe and Asia Pacific; however, NEMA certification was vital to meeting the requirements of our customers in the USA and Canada.

“By undergoing the demanding NEMA testing process, we can further assure our customers of its suitability in even the most challenging environments. This is in addition to our overall commitment to quality, safety, and compliance. It was fascinating to see the product endure a wide range of extreme conditions in the laboratory, and we’re proud to announce its NEMA-certified status.”

For more information on AGD, visit agd-systems.com.

Marking a symbolic moment for its pioneering expansion project in Staverton, Cheltenham, The Traffic Group signed the steel to celebrate the construction of its new and sustainable workspace. The new building will sit alongside two existing buildings on the site which form the Group’s headquarters.

In partnership with fellow local businesses – Cheltenham-based RRA architects, who designed the project, and contractors EG Carters in Gloucester – the new building has been purposefully designed to prioritise sustainability and long-term functionality. The new development will offer the Group a versatile workspace capable of evolving alongside the future demands of the transport technology industry.

Senior team members from the family-run business became a permanent part of the building’s legacy by scribing their names and a message from The Traffic Group. Pete Hutchinson, Managing Director, Maxine Hutchinson, Executive Director and Phil Hutchinson, Operations Director, were joined by representatives from RRA Architects, Hydrock, WWA and E G Carter and Co Ltd, who also left their imprint.

“We’re excited to mark the next stage in the project and have been impressed at the efforts of our partners in bringing our vision of the building to life. The new facility will not only enhance our service delivery and operational capabilities but also create a new social space for colleagues to come together,” says Pete Hutchinson. “Additionally, we wanted to establish a campus-style facility that fosters long-term business growth. As we celebrate the construction of our new and eco-conscious workspace, we look forward to a future where innovation, sustainability and growth are at the heart of everything we do.”

The new building, which comprises a large warehouse facility and office space, has been designed with air source heat pumps and 45kW PV solar panel arrays, creating a carbon-positive workspace that uses surplus energy generation to power older buildings on the estate. It was designed by registered B-Corp firm RRA Architects.

Pete Nickols, Associate at RRA Architects comments: “This has been a very exciting project to be involved in, with some challenging conditions to resolve at both planning and building regulations stage. Now that the steel frame is in place (and signed!), momentum is gathering and it’s exciting to see the plans coming to life. RRA Architects is thrilled to be involved in this project and to be part of a fantastic team!”

The project was awarded to a local construction firm, E G Carter & Co Ltd, who have previously worked with the Group and have recently extended the manufacturing facility located within the site.

Mark Harries, Associate Director at E G Carter & Co Ltd, says: “We are delighted to be working with The Traffic Group again, which continues our longstanding relationship with the business. This project involves the creation of a first-class warehouse and office facility, with sustainability at the forefront of the design.”

The project is expected to be completed in July 2024.

About The Traffic Group

The Traffic Group is a collection of specialist technology innovators that supply for the present and test for the future.

TTG’s current portfolio of companies comprises AGD Systems Ltd, MAV Systems LTD, Traffic Group Signals, AGD Systems Ptd Ltd (Australia) and LTM Design Ltd. TTG, a privately owned business, employs over 120 staff across the UK and Australia and is headquartered in Gloucestershire, UK.

For more information on The Traffic Group, visit https://traffic.group/

About E G Carters

The partner of choice for all construction services

E G Carter & Co Ltd is a fourth-generation family-owned construction company operating across South West England. We provide a modern construction service with an underlying sense of tradition, value, and history. Operating as the Partner of Choice, we are a company that delivers a dynamic, seamless and trusted service, supporting our clients, our people and our communities.

E G Carter & Co Ltd deliver a comprehensive range of building and construction services throughout the Midlands, South and South West, operating in a variety of sectors including Education, Residential, Commercial, Private Clients, Healthcare & Insured Loss Repair. Project values range from a few hundred pounds up to £25m with a turnover approaching £85 million. We operate a continual training matrix investing £250,000 per year to the on-going upskilling of staff and operatives.

For more information, visit: egcarter.co.uk

About RRA Architects

RRA Architects comprises a highly dedicated, multi disciplined, team with a wide range of experience and knowledge of the built environment.

For more information, visit: rraarchitects.com

Media Enquiries

Issued on behalf of AGD Systems by Jask Creative. For further information, please get in touch with our media team at [email protected]

Photography by Clint Randall www.pixelprphotography.co.uk

Two ITS solutions that continue to lead the way will be on display at an upcoming event.

Highways UK is one of the major dates in AGD’s annual calendar, and this year we’ll be taking along examples of our AGD343 and AGD650 solutions – which are being increasingly used at sites across the UK as well as further afield too.

The AGD343 is our class-leading highways monitoring radar which has the capacity to provide real-time data for up to ten lanes from just 2m away from the nearest lane. Enforcement-grade radar and sophisticated techniques measure the speed, range and length of passing vehicles in all weather conditions.

A real win for safety, capability and efficiency on highways; so, it’s no wonder the AGD343 has attracted the attention of transport authorities in Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Qatar, where the radar was deployed in large numbers along the FIFA Travel Corridors for the 2022 World Cup.

And the AGD650 is our very latest solution, having launched full production earlier in 2023. It’s a dual zone stop-line detector which makes intersections more efficient using in-built artificial intelligence (AI).

Its neural processing platform and sophisticated algorithms provide automated decision-making equalling ultra-reliable detection.

The AGD650 is already proving hugely popular given its capabilities, especially at locations where there are specific needs such as cycling lanes intersecting traffic, bus priority lanes or all-red clearance at junctions.

And of course, the team will be more than happy to discuss specific needs with Highways UK visitors – as we have a plethora of solutions focused on traffic and pedestrian control, highways, and enforcement, all backed up by our 30+ years as one of the UK’s leading ITS manufacturers.

Click here more information about Highways UK, which takes place on October 18^th and 19^th at the NEC in Birmingham. Attendees can visit for free, and you can find us at Stand 73 alongside the team from our sister company Traffic Group Signals.

A leading ITS manufacturer, AGD Systems, has strengthened its commercial team with the appointment of Kieran Corbally as Senior Commercial Manager.

Kieran Corbally brings more than 20 years of sales experience and completed the International Leadership Development Academy run by Swarco UK & Ireland Ltd as part of his previous role.

Kieran – who enjoys Formula 1 and plays golf in his spare time –  said: “My personal goal is to ensure every client is treated the same way and afforded the same effort. I believe in always going the extra mile for a client to ensure they achieve the best solution available.”

During his time in the ITS sector has seen a growing emphasis on cleaner cities and the rise of AI technology to help enhance data streams.

He believes the innovations AGD have brought to the market, including the AI-powered AGD650 will be instrumental in guiding the way.

Alongside this future-focused way of thinking, AGD’s reputation was a driving factor in joining the team for Kieran: “Everyone in the industry has got the highest level of respect for AGD and the innovative solutions they provide.”

”Our goals and ambitions for the future are very much aligned and I look forward to contributing to the future success of the business.”

Initially, Kieran will be focused on getting to know his colleagues, the client base and familiarising himself with The Traffic Group and its companies.

“To me it is very important to understand what the market is looking for both now and in the future. I am very keen to listen to and collaborate with clients old and new and help shape a future driven by the ever-changing demands of the industry. AGD have the people and the talent to help develop products for the future but we need the in-depth knowledge of the wider industry to help with these conversations.”

AGD’s Commercial Director Ian Hind believes Kieran will be a great asset when it comes to the continued development and growth of the team, adding: “Kieran’s extensive sales background, in particular his knowledge of the ITS sector, is certain to prove invaluable as we continue to strengthen our relationships with local authorities and transport decision makers not only in the UK, but also around the globe.”

“We’re excited to welcome Kieran to the team, and we look forward to introducing him to our UK and International partners.”

This week marks an important occasion in the UK ITS calendar, with Traffex taking place at the NEC Birmingham – beginning tomorrow (Tuesday 6^th June).

Visitors will be find out more about AGD Systems’ range of solutions, including the AGD650. The team will be on hand at stand D12 – next to representatives from our sister company Traffic Group Signals – throughout the three-day event, ready to showcase the 650’s performance and attributes, as well as sharing all the information you need on any of our ITS solutions.

It’s the first time the 650 dual lane stop-line detector has been on display at a major event since full-scale production launched earlier in 2023, following successful trials across England, Scotland and Wales.

Commercial Director Ian Hind says: “Traffex is one of the key dates in the year for AGD, giving us an opportunity to network and share with both new and existing contacts the developments and product improvements we’ve made since the last show.

“It’ll be the first outing for the 650 since it went into full production, representing an exciting opportunity for Traffex visitors to learn more about the AI technology used and the data capabilities possible going forward.

“We look forward to welcoming you to stand D12!”

About the AGD650:

The AGD650 is a smart detector which makes intersections and junctions more efficient by delivering robust vehicle detection data at the stop-line of multi lane approaches. Its in-built artificial intelligence processes information on board to optimise performance and provide ultra-reliable detection, with a new neural processing platform and sophisticated algorithms providing automated decision making.

About AGD Systems:

Launched more than three decades ago in Cheltenham, England, AGD Systems has become one of the UK’s leading ITS manufacturers and is trusted by highways authorities across the world because of its commitment to innovation, quality and globally compatible solutions. AGD’s products for smart cities, smart highways and strategic transport initiatives are suitable for the ever-changing needs of today and the challenges of tomorrow. Whether it’s traffic and pedestrian detection or highways monitoring and enforcement, AGD’s experts have a range of products which are easy to integrate and maintain.

Useful Links:

For more information about the 650 including key features, applications and product manual, click here.

To see videos of the 650 in action, visit this page.

To read more details about the successful trials carried out across the UK, see here.

And finally, if you’ve not yet registered for your free Traffex ticket, you can do so on the event website.

Every year, Earth Day is marked across the world in a bid to highlight use of the globe’s natural resources and the steps we can all take in preserving the environment.

As well as attending or hosting events on the day itself (April 22nd), the awareness day encourages us all to think every single day about the impact that we’re having on the globe.

It’s a topic which is incredibly important to us as a company – and across the wider Traffic Group – and we’ve taken numerous environmental strides over the years.

Commercial Director Ian Hind explains: “At AGD, we not only want to mitigate and eradicate any negative impacts we could have as a company upon the environment; we’re also committed to exploring the ways we can go further than this, and ensure we positively affect our local environment and the wider world.

“We’re proud of the efforts we have already made but we’re not going to stop there – environmentalism is a journey and it’s one that we will continue to take, searching for new and innovative processes and procedures which will benefit the globe.

“As well as reviewing the ways in which we undertake our work here at AGD, we also see a crucial link between our environmental policies and our products themselves.

“By reducing the likelihood of traffic build-up, and by encouraging sustainable travel – such as walking and cycling – by ensuring junctions and crossings are safer to use, we can play our part in reducing the emissions associated with transportation – all the while encouraging local authorities and traffic planners to do the same.

To mark 2023’s Earth Day, we wanted to share five key milestones in our environmental journey:

• 22% of the vehicle fleet across the entire Traffic Group is now electric.
• We have installed 50 new solar panels at our manufacturing facility, which is now carbon-positive.
• In the last 11 years, we have generated almost a quarter of a million kWh of renewable energy on-site.
• We use 100% recycled and recyclable cardboard for our packaging.
• And that’s helped us reduce the amount of waste we sent to landfill to zero!