Smart Crosswalks Tested in Camden Aim to Reduce Accidents
Camden Council and engineers are trialling interactive crosswalks that adapt to pedestrian flow and traffic, potentially saving lives.
28 May 2025 at 12:05 | By Natalie Young
Camden Council has partnered with transport engineers to test a new generation of 'smart' pedestrian crosswalks. These crossings are designed to adapt dynamically to real-time foot traffic, improving both safety and efficiency in busy borough intersections.
Unlike traditional signal-controlled systems, the new crosswalks use embedded sensors and AI-powered cameras to detect the presence and movement of pedestrians. When people approach the curb, the system automatically adjusts the crossing time and activates visual alerts for oncoming vehicles.
The initiative was launched in response to a recent uptick in pedestrian-related incidents in the Camden area. According to Transport for London, over 200 minor collisions were reported in the borough last year, many of which occurred near busy junctions during peak hours.
In addition to safety enhancements, the smart crosswalks are programmed to reduce wait times for both pedestrians and drivers. “Our goal is to minimize delays while keeping everyone safe,” said a representative from the engineering firm overseeing installation.
Local residents who have tested the crossings so far have responded positively. “It feels like the crossing is actually aware of you,” said one commuter. “You don’t have to press a button and wait unnecessarily if there’s no traffic.”
The pilot project currently includes three smart crossings installed along Eversholt Street and Camden High Street. Officials plan to monitor data over a six-month period before considering wider rollout across Greater London.
Beyond Camden, several cities worldwide — including Barcelona and Toronto — are experimenting with similar systems. Camden’s version stands out for its focus on low-energy sensors and cost-effective maintenance.
Critics, however, have raised concerns over privacy and the use of surveillance technology in public infrastructure. Camden Council has responded by emphasizing that no personally identifiable data is stored or transmitted by the crosswalk cameras.
If deemed successful, the council aims to install at least 25 additional smart crosswalks across school zones, shopping districts, and accident-prone areas by the end of next year.
The smart crosswalk project is part of a broader effort by the council to modernize urban infrastructure while promoting pedestrian safety. The trial’s results will be reviewed publicly in a community forum scheduled for early autumn.
For now, both safety advocates and tech enthusiasts are watching Camden’s experiment closely. As urban populations grow, such innovations may become the standard rather than the exception in traffic design.