UK firms Ladbrook and Westcotec have unveiled a new generation of electronic road signs, which they claim will result in significant cost savings for transport authorities.

Called Speed Roundel, the signs can be attached to street lights and will illuminate on detection of traffic exceeding the speed limit.

According to the companies, the signs are small and discreet when not active and very bright once activated and cost less for installation as they are powered from the electrics within the street light.

The signs feature lightweight vandal-proof enclosures to ensure working for many years.

Westcotec designed and built the new signs and Ladbrook helped develop their metal enclosure.

The product, which can help calm traffic and reduce accidents, is expected to be particularly useful as a high visibility ‘reminder’ in 20mph areas, said Westcotec.