When something unexpected happens on the roads, from collisions to sudden bad weather, the TOC steps in to keep traffic moving and reduce disruption for everyone who lives, works or travels in Kent.
With more than 180 CCTV cameras positioned at key junctions, the TOC monitors conditions as they unfold and responds quickly to breakdowns, emergency roadworks, traffic signal faults and other incidents that can affect journeys.
In addition to CCTV, the TOC has live access to almost 800 traffic signals across the county, and can control over half of them remotely. This allows the team to adjust signal timings when needed to help improve traffic flow.
The centre also handles enquiries about traffic signal equipment and ensures that roadside technology is working as it should.
Matt Watson, Traffic Operations Centre Team Leader
Matt Watson, Traffic Operations Centre Team Leader, said: "I really enjoy working in such a great team and seeing the real-time daily impact the work of the TOC has to Kent’s residents and visitors to Kent – and how we can make a difference to people’s journeys by adjusting traffic signals to improve traffic flow.”
Information gathered by the TOC feeds directly into the live Kent Traffic Information map, which displays incidents, roadworks, camera images, updates from variable message signs and other roadside infrastructure such as bus stops.
The also centre works closely with Kent Police and is the first point of contact for incidents on the county’s roads.Looking ahead, the TOC is exploring how new technologies, including how developments in AI could further improve traffic management and signal efficiency in the future, so it can help to keep Kent moving even more effectively.
“The Traffic Operations Centre is a great example of the dedicated people working behind the scenes to keep our road networks running smoothly.”
Peter Osborne, KCC’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport said: “The Traffic Operations Centre is a great example of the dedicated people working behind the scenes to keep our road networks running smoothly.
"The team’s knowledge, quick decision‑making and commitment mean they can respond to incidents as they happen and make a real difference to road users every day.”
