Red light warning system trialled

The new system will give motorists a heads up and prevent them running a red light. Photo / iStock

A new system to give motorists a heads up and prevent them running a red light is on trial in Auckland.

The new system involved red illuminated markers being placed on the road at two closely spaced intersections in Remuera.

Auckland Transport's network operations and safety manager Randhir Karma said the trial was to see whether those likely to run the red could be stopped.

"Lights in the traffic lanes are linked to the traffic signals and warn drivers by showing that the signals have turned red and they must stop."

The Remuera and Clonbern roads intersection and the Remuera Rd and Victoria Ave intersection, where the system has been implemented, was a busy area for motorists and pedestrians.

Between 2010 and 2014 a total of 12 crashes were reported in the area.

"There have also been a number of near misses between pedestrians and vehicles. Over the years, safety concerns have been raised by the local community and Remuera businesses. We hope this will help deal with the problem," Mr Karma said.

Orakei Local Board's Ken Baguley welcomed the trial.

"This is a cost-effective way to get the message to motorists that the lights ahead are red."

The trial is scheduled to last until the end of September next year when Auckland Transport would evaluate it.