MEL appoints Stantec to support the delivery of a new ‘world class’ tolling system

Midlands Expressway Ltd (MEL) has appointed Stantec as their Design Services Partner to lead a transformational programme to refurbish the existing tolling system deployed on the M6toll, the UK’s only tolled motorway. 

The project will involve the procurement, selection and appointment of software, systems and equipment providers to implement new roadside and back office tolling solutions. Those companies interested in being involved in this project are being invited to register their interest in readiness for the procurement process due to commence in the spring.

The planned investment will see MEL which operates the M6toll, implement a new ‘world class’ tolling system, which will include changes to the tolling system architecture through the introduction of Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) vehicle recognition technology as part of a strategy to drive growth and increase choice for customers.

A new customer relationship management (CRM) back office system and eCommerce systems will also be implemented, to ensure smooth and efficient operations and improved customer service for the 50,000 drivers who use the road each day.

The new tolling system will bring a number of benefits to those using the road, including seamless end to end travel and further reductions to journey times. The new technology will also enhance M6toll's suite of ‘Savers’ products which have successfully attracted new trips since they were first introduced in 2018, benefiting congestion on alternative routes.

Andy Cliffe, MEL Chief Executive, said: “The investment in the new infrastructure will deliver a world class tolling system, enhancing the customer experience, improving further our strong record of journey time savings and reliability, and increasing the appeal of the road for new users.

“Following a rigorous selection process involving sector leading companies from around the globe, Stantec has been commissioned to carry out the project. As a world leading consultancy, Stantec are responsible for supporting the delivery of some of the best constructed and most technically efficient tolling systems available and we look forward to working with them to deliver a similar standout project for the M6toll.

“The new tolling system is part of the wider ‘Road Ahead’ digital transformation programme which will improve operational efficiencies and further focus the business on the needs of our customers and the businesses and communities we serve.  Deploying the most innovative technology is central to ensuring we deliver efficient, hassle free journeys for the 50,000 drivers who rely on us each day.”

As MEL’s Design Services Partner, Stantec will deliver in-depth and high-quality expertise from the conceptual planning through to the detailed design and implementation phases of the project.  The Stantec team, which includes engineers, tolling, and technology specialists from the UK and the US, is proud to be working with MEL to implement the latest technology and approaches to ensure this transformational programme delivers real benefits, in terms of safety, price and efficiency, for motorists.

Stantec will lead a review of the current tolling system and infrastructure and specify a programme of work that incorporates new roadside ANPR technology, as well as improvements for the operational and commercial back office systems. As Design Services Partner, Stantec will also assist MEL with the procurement of one or more Implementation Service Partners and provide project management services during the implementation and delivery of the new tolling system. Organisations can register their interest in providing the upgraded systems by emailing M6TollDSP@Stantec.com.

Stantec is an international leader in transportation with specialised expertise in managing the delivery of roadside and back office tolling systems around the world. We offer toll technology services ranging from strategic planning and cost forecasting to business rules and requirements development, request for proposal preparation and procurement assistance, system design and software development oversight, independent verification and validation testing and system performance monitoring after go-live. Stantec currently serves as the overall programme manager for a multi-million dollar modernisation of the Ohio turnpike in the USA that will introduce non-stop tolling across the 241 mile corridor as well as the new world class back office system and customer self-service website.

About Stantec
Communities are fundamental. Whether around the corner or across the globe, they provide a foundation, a sense of place and of belonging. That's why at Stantec, we always design with community in mind.

We care about the communities we serve—because they're our communities too. This allows us to assess what's needed and connect our expertise, to appreciate nuances and envision what's never been considered, to bring together diverse perspectives so we can collaborate toward a shared success.

We're designers, engineers, scientists, and project managers, innovating together at the intersection of community, creativity, and client relationships. Balancing these priorities results in projects that advance the quality of life in communities across the globe.

Stantec trades on the TSX and the NYSE under the symbol STN.

Media Contact
Jody Prescott                                                             
Stantec Media Relations                               
Ph: (44) 1189-520670                                       
jody.prescott@stantec.com      

About Midland Expressway Ltd (M6toll)                                       
The M6toll is the free-flowing alternative to the congestion of the M6 and the region’s busy roads. It gives businesses and individuals, locally and nationally, a fast, reliable and safe route to, through and around the Midlands. 

Taking 50,000 vehicles away from the M6 and local roads every day, the M6toll benefits the region’s road users with reduced journey times and easing of congestion on both the local road network and long-distance routes.

Since it opened in 2003, as the UK’s only privately funded and maintained motorway, it has provided over £1billion of critical infrastructure without any cost to the public purse.

As 70% of customers use the road to bypass Birmingham and the equivalent section of the M6, it provides important national connectivity with average journey time savings of up to 40% during peak times. 

The benefits of the M6toll have attracted more commuters, business travellers, businesses and HGV operators to the road every year. For those businesses and HGV operators including hauliers, pallets and parcels networks, supply chain and just-in-sequence logistics, the M6toll has particularly benefitted them by improving their operational efficiencies. 

For media enquiries, interview or photo requests please contact:

Mark McLachlan
07831 308133
mark.mclachlan@waachosen.co.uk