New motorway technology has been launched on the M90 in Fife as part of the Forth Replacement Crossing Project.

The Intelligent Transport System (ITS) works through creating variable mandatory speed limits, which can be used to smooth traffic flow during periods of congestion.

The system was officially opened on 4 December and will be followed with a second phase in early 2013 on the M9 and M9 spur near to Kirkliston.

The final phase will be implemented in 2016 when the new Forth Replacement Crossing itself is completed.

This is the first time ITS will be used in Scotland, but such a system is already in place in England. It uses sensors in the road to detect congestion and lower the speed limit to keep traffic moving.

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This, it is argued, will help to reduce delays and traffic jams.

According to Transport Scotland, evidence has shown systems which reduce vehicle queues can reduce accidents resulting in injury by up to 13%.

Keith Brown, Minister for Transport, said: "The project, which is on time and on budget, was always about more than just the building of a new bridge –as impressive a feat of civil engineering as that stunning structure will ultimately prove to be. It was about improving that vital cross-Forth link and using existing infrastructure more efficiently to ensure better traffic flow and more reliable journey times, prioritised public transport, improved safety and lower emissions.

"Safety is always of paramount importance and while the system requires no special knowledge or skills by drivers, my officials in Transport Scotland have undertaken an extensive information and training campaign including working with bus companies, emergency services and leaflets, radio adverts and online content to raise awareness of the system before it goes live."

17 new gantries will be in place, including variable message signs and lane signals, and new road markings and fixed signs.

The hard shoulder will also be used as a dedicated bus lane, allowing buses to bypass any congestion on the main carriageway.

(IT)