Transport for London says its website will offer drivers a bird’s eye view of traffic hotspots, allowing them to see where traffic is building up and avoid problem areas.
TfL has also set up a new live Twitter feed which will relay up to the minute information on traffic conditions.
The body says the new tools are part of Mayor Boris Johnson’s “ongoing work to smooth traffic flow and reduce disruption for every road user in London.”
Johnson said: “This new service will give motorists and indeed other road users the power to become the eye in the sky and avoid nasty snarl ups. Anyone with internet access or a mobile phone will be able to check out the latest situation on their chosen route and make informed journey choices.”
Independent software and app developers are being invited to use the data to develop further tools.
Garrett Emmerson, Chief Operating Officer for Surface Transport at TfL said: “Technology now allows us to put a wealth of information at motorists’ fingertips. Those who know their route well can now pre-empt any congested areas by checking online before they set out on their journey, or – when safe – take advantage of our @TfLTrafficNews Twitter feed for advance warning of any congestion ahead and then apply their local traffic knowledge to avoid the jams.
“For those unfamiliar with their route, our road information service at www.tfl.gov.uk/trafficnews is an excellent means of ensuring a stress-free drive. So the clear message is check before you drive.”
