Scanner automated carriageway condition surveys

Traffic Speed Condition Surveys (TRACS) were introduced on the trunk road network in England in 2000. Work was undertaken in 2003 to consider whether, in principle, the TRACS technology could be adapted for use on local authority roads (a copy of the scoping study report is available here.  On the basis of the scoping study, Ministers agreed a £3.6 million programme to develop the technology. The implementation project has been managed on behalf of the Roads Board by the Halcrow Group [www.halcrow.com].  Further details of how the project is being managed can be found here.

Local authorities in England commissioned the first TRACS Type Surveys (TTS) on local roads in 2004/05, covering their principal (A) roads. The results were reported as BV(96) in 2005.

Following the first round of research completed during 2004, a revised specification was introduced under the name of SCANNER (Surface Condition Assessment for the National NEtwork of Roads).

Surveys covering B and C class roads in England commenced in 2005/06. The results were reported as BV223 (principal roads) and BV224a (non principal classified roads).   Advice for local authorities on procuring Scanner surveys is here.

SCANNER surveys are carried out by commercial survey companies, using equipment which has passed an acceptance test and has an accreditation certificate.  Details of the acceptance testing and accreditation process are here. 

The surveys are carried out under a quality assurance and audit regime, details of which are here.

Details of the research programme undertaken to adapt the technology for use on local roads are here.

The SCANNER specification was revised for the surveys in 2006/07 and is available here.

Following the further research programme, the SCANNER specification has been extended for the surveys in 2007/08 and a consultation draft is available here.