Intelligent Studs

Technology Renewal Project at Hindhead Tunnel Lights the Way

12th August 2026 - Alistair Gollop for ITS Now

Having specified some of the technology assets at Hindhead when the tunnel was originally constructed, I was interested to see a technology renewal project underway on this strategic route between the south coast and London. Major infrastructure renewals often reveal the quiet technologies that keep strategic routes functioning day after day. The Hindhead Tunnel on the A3 is one of those places where innovation is not always visible to the travelling public, yet it plays a vital role in keeping traffic moving safely beneath the Devil’s Punch Bowl. As National Highways embarks on a significant programme of maintenance at the site, it has once again selected Clearview Intelligence’s Intelligent Road Stud Technology to support safe operations within the tunnel.

The decision marks a continuation of a long-standing relationship between National Highways and Clearview Intelligence. The Hindhead Tunnel has relied on Clearview’s intelligent road studs for many years, and the latest renewal project will see a new generation of the system installed. A total of 860 intelligent road studs will be fitted, with 430 placed in the south bore and a further 430 in the north bore. The work forms part of National Highways’ planned resurfacing programme, and because the existing studs are integrated into the carriageway, the resurfacing has created an ideal opportunity to upgrade the technology at the same time.

Clearview’s Intelligent Road Studs differ significantly from conventional reflective studs. Traditional studs rely on vehicle headlights to illuminate lane markings, which can be less effective in enclosed environments such as tunnels. Clearview’s IRS2 system uses hardwired, high-intensity LED studs that actively illuminate the lane guidance pattern. This provides drivers with a clearer, more consistent visual reference, particularly in low-light conditions where tunnel lighting and reflective surfaces can create visual challenges.

The system is not simply a lighting upgrade. It is designed to integrate with wider traffic management systems, allowing the illuminated studs to respond dynamically to changing operational requirements. Lane closures, maintenance activities, contraflow arrangements and incident management can all be supported by altering the illumination pattern of the studs. This creates a more adaptable and responsive environment within the tunnel, helping drivers understand lane availability and direction at a glance.

National Highways’ decision to retain and renew Clearview’s technology rather than adopt an alternative solution speaks to the reliability of the existing installation. The earlier generation of Clearview’s intelligent road studs has provided many years of dependable service at Hindhead. The new installation builds on that foundation, offering improved performance and enhanced integration capabilities while maintaining the proven characteristics that operators trust.

Clearview Intelligence is not only supplying the studs but also providing technical oversight and operational support throughout the installation programme. The company’s Director of Operations, James Turner, highlights that the project demonstrates the breadth of Clearview’s operational services. Technical design, installation support, project oversight, specialist highways engineering, maintenance and training all form part of the company’s wider offer. By working closely with delivery partners and clients, Clearview aims to ensure that intelligent transport systems are installed safely and continue to perform reliably throughout their operational life.

Installation work is being carried out by Clearview Intelligence alongside Lochwynd Contractors, with associated white lining delivered by Wilson and Scott. The programme has been carefully planned to minimise disruption for motorists. Overnight closures allow specialist teams to work within the tunnel while ensuring that the route reopens to traffic each morning. This approach reflects the operational importance of the Hindhead Tunnel, which forms a key strategic link between London and Portsmouth. Opened in 2011, the tunnel carries the A3 beneath the Devil’s Punch Bowl and is widely regarded as one of the United Kingdom’s most significant road tunnels.

The renewal project also highlights the growing role of intelligent infrastructure in modern road operations. As tunnels, bridges and strategic routes become more complex, the technologies embedded within them must evolve to meet new demands. Intelligent road studs are part of a wider ecosystem of digital and physical systems that support safe and efficient travel. Their ability to provide clear lane guidance, adapt to operational changes and integrate with traffic management platforms makes them a valuable tool for operators seeking to enhance safety and resilience.

Tunnel environments present unique challenges for drivers. Lighting conditions, confined spaces and the absence of natural visual cues can all affect how drivers perceive lane boundaries and movement. Intelligent road studs help mitigate these challenges by providing a consistent and highly visible reference point. This can reduce uncertainty, improve lane discipline and support safer navigation through the tunnel.

The Hindhead Tunnel renewal project also reflects a broader trend within the highways sector. Infrastructure owners are increasingly looking to upgrade embedded technologies during major maintenance programmes. Resurfacing, structural works and tunnel refurbishments create opportunities to replace older systems with modern equivalents that offer improved performance and greater flexibility. Clearview’s involvement in the Hindhead project demonstrates how intelligent transport systems can be integrated into these wider programmes to deliver long-term operational benefits.

As the installation progresses, the renewed intelligent road stud system will form a key part of the tunnel’s safety infrastructure. Its ability to adapt to changing conditions will support maintenance activities, incident response and day-to-day operations. For drivers, the illuminated studs will provide clearer guidance and a more predictable driving environment. For National Highways, the system offers a reliable and future-ready solution that aligns with its commitment to maintaining safe and efficient strategic routes.

The Hindhead Tunnel is a reminder that the technologies shaping modern road travel are often hidden from view. Intelligent road studs may be small, but their impact on safety and operational clarity is significant. Clearview Intelligence’s continued involvement at the site reflects both the trust placed in its technology and the importance of intelligent infrastructure in keeping the country moving.

As the renewal project continues through its carefully planned overnight works, the tunnel will emerge with a refreshed and modernised guidance system ready to support drivers for many years to come. It is a quiet but important upgrade to one of the nation’s most vital road links, demonstrating how thoughtful integration of intelligent transport systems can enhance safety, reliability and the everyday experience of road users.