Pavements could soon change size, shape and function depending on traffic and pedestrian needs, with a new ‘smart’ kerbside system which uses LEDs to change roadsides from pedestrian space, to loading bays and lanes for autonomous cars

The system uses colour-changing LEDs embedded in roadside surfaces to alter their uses. When the LEDs are red, for example, the kerbside could be used by pedestrians; when green, it could be for cars, while blue lights could indicate its availability as a cycle lane. Purple lights, meanwhile, could inform couriers and delivery drivers that the roadside is available for use as a loading bay.

This is one of several possible solutions for preparing the country’s road network for connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs).

The system would be monitored by real-time traffic data from smart cameras and sensors, allowing those running it to alter a road’s use depending on demand. This could potentially reduce emissions and make an ideal environment for autonomous cars in the future.

The other ideas for consideration included how self-driving and conventional vehicles can coexist on the road, and how roads can evolve to accommodate both autonomous vehicles (AVs) and electric vehicles (EVs).