M6 Toll to adopt automatic payment by number plate

Now the M6 Toll is hoping to put an end to that, by allowing vehicles to pay without even stopping.

It is planning to install number plate technology, which will allow motorists who register to avoid the hassle of stopping to pay.

It is the latest step in the M6 Toll's development of the way people pay, which has developed from throwing coins into a basket to the current tapping of payment cards.

Motorists who like the old fashioned ways will still be able to pay by cash or card, but bosses at the road say the new technology will improve traffic flows through the region.

The multi-million pound project will see Midlands Expressway, which operates the M6 Toll between the M6 at Cannock and the M42, installing roadside automatic number plate recognition cameras to identify vehicle licence plates in order to facilitate seamless, contactless travel on the road.

A new customer relationship management back office system and eCommerce systems will also be implemented.

The first wave of ANPR cameras on the M6 Toll will go live in April, initially as a pilot project for vans and trucks invited to take part in the trial, before being gradually introduced for use by all other road users during the roll-out of the programme.

Andy Cliffe, MEL chief executive, said: “The investment in the new infrastructure will deliver a world class tolling system, enhancing the customer experience, improving further our strong record of journey time savings and reliability, and increasing the appeal of the road for new users.

“Following a rigorous selection process involving sector leading companies from around the globe, Stantec has been commissioned to carry out the project.

"As a world leading consultancy, Stantec is responsible for supporting the delivery of some of the best constructed and most technically efficient tolling systems available and we look forward to working with them to deliver a similar standout project for the M6 Toll.

“The new tolling system is part of the wider ‘Road Ahead’ digital transformation programme which will improve operational efficiencies and further focus the business on the needs of our customers and the businesses and communities we serve.

"Deploying the most innovative technology is central to ensuring we deliver efficient, hassle free journeys for the 50,000 drivers who rely on us each day.”

Dougie McDonald, director for transport in the UK, said: “As MEL’s design services partner, Stantec will deliver in-depth and high-quality expertise from the conceptual planning through to the detailed design and implementation phases of the project.

“The Stantec team, which includes engineers, tolling, and technology specialists from the UK and the US, is proud to be working with MEL to implement the latest technology and approaches to ensure this transformational programme delivers real benefits, in terms of safety, price and efficiency, for motorists.”

As design services partner, Stantec will assist MEL with the procurement of one or more Implementation Service Partners and provide project management services during the implementation and delivery of the new tolling system.

Organisations can register their interest in providing the upgraded systems by emailing M6 TollDSP@Stantec.com