Radio public address will provide information and advice during emergencies by voice break-in direct to car radios via FM, MW, LW and DAB channels. The Rotherhithe Tunnel is believed to be the first tunnel in the UK to provide DAB radio rebroadcast with emergency voice break-in. The DAB voice break-in facility ensures future-proofing as digital radio replaces analogue and DAB vehicle radios become standard features.
Under normal circumstances, 21 analogue stations and all available DAB stations (five multiplexes) will be rebroadcast throughout the tunnel. Listeners in the tunnel will not have to take any action: the break-in announcements will simply replace all the normal programming.
Loudspeaker public address will complement radio public address by providing clear voice announcements to all tunnel users, including pedestrians, cyclists and vehicle occupants who have their radios switched off or have left their vehicles.
Mobile phone coverage will help tunnel users call for assistance more quickly in the event of breakdown, accident or emergency, especially if they are unable or unwilling to use the existing tunnel telephones. Private mobile radio coverage will be provided for the fire, police, ambulance, London buses and tunnel maintenance.
According to Gerald Dolby-Gray, TfL's team leader for the project: "This innovative contract demonstrates TfL's commitment to the highest standards of safety and security, especially for users with disabilities."
(Jim Evans)
