TOUCH-free technology is to be installed in more than 50 pedestrian crossings across Cumbria.

Teams from Cumbria County Council’s highways service will begin work this week.

Smartcross is a touch-free pedestrian crossing system which was successfully trialled in several locations in Carlisle city centre in 2020. It works alongside existing push-button systems at controlled pedestrian crossings. The unit also has a remote-control function for people with mobility issues or visual impairments by using a SmartButton / SmartTube.

Throughout the Covid pandemic, the need to minimise surface contact and make crossings more accessible to people with disabilities has prompted the council to install the new technology this year - beginning with 54 units at crossings in tourist hotspots across Cumbria, including Keswick and Ambleside.

Cllr Keith Little, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “I’m pleased that this new technology is being installed in key locations where we know pedestrian traffic is particularly busy. It will help improve accessibility, as well as road safety and traffic flows. It’s important to invest in the latest solutions that help local people and tourists in our communities to move around easily and with minimal disruption to other traffic.”