Improve communication and traffic flow around high-footfall events
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The Challenge
As every event manager knows, the challenge to ensure the safe and efficient flow of traffic around and within venues begins long before an event opens to the public, as suppliers and exhibitors arrive to set up.
Once visitors begin to appear on the scene, whether in vehicles or on foot, they need crystal-clear directions to the right places and fool-proof instructions on safe speed limits.
Security has got to be tight, not just to protect people and assets, but also to simply ensure that everyone is where they should be so that the event can run to plan.
A robust, integrated temporary intelligent transport system (ITS) can help organisers to achieve all the above, as well as providing great opportunities for branding and advertising.
But it is now no longer enough just to deploy a high-performance system. Most events have their own sustainability targets that can only be met by solutions designed to help minimise their carbon footprint.
The Solution
SRL has established itself as a trusted events partner, providing organisers and traffic managers with VMS and other solar-powered, portable ITS hire solutions.
Supporting major events such as Glastonbury Festival, SRL enables teams to deliver safe, well-managed events while minimising disruption to surrounding public highways.
ANPR cameras identify vehicles by category and integrate seamlessly with variable message signs (VMS), Instaboom safety barriers and traffic signals to support controlled access and efficient vehicle movement across event sites.
VMS are used extensively to direct vehicles and pedestrians to venues, entrances, parking areas and designated zones. Due to event environments changing rapidly, mobile VMS traffic signs allow organisers to adapt messaging instantly in response to crowd movement, operational changes or emerging safety requirements, a critical capability for fast-moving events such as the London Marathon.
As well as communicating routes and speed limits, full-colour displays allow variable message signs (VMS) to be used for branding, sponsor messaging and event communications, maximising visibility in high-footfall locations.
Instaboom safety barriers provide automatic access for authorised vehicles only, via remote control. Alternatively, adaptable traffic signal timings with traffic signals, allow safe movement for all vehicle types, including slow-moving HGVs. Portable 360° CCTV and PTZ cameras monitor event perimeters and internal areas, supporting security teams in even the most challenging environments.
We can help ensure your event runs safely and smoothly.
VMS Applications for Events
SRL’s VMS solutions are widely deployed to support event traffic management and crowd communication across a wide range of public events. Units can be positioned on approach roads, temporary road closures, venue entrances, pedestrian routes and internal roads to provide clear, high visibility guidance wherever it is required.
Event organisers use SRL’s VMS to manage vehicle arrivals and departures, direct pedestrians safely through crowded areas, and communicate real-time updates during peak arrival or exit periods. Each unit operates as a portable variable message sign, ensuring flexibility as layouts, crowd density, and access routes change throughout the event lifecycle.
Designed for outdoor, high impact environments, the signs maintain excellent visibility in low light, poor weather and high-glare conditions. When combined with radar or live message updates, VMS help reduce congestion, improve compliance and reinforce safety for both attendees and staff.
For short-term events or multi-day programmes, many organisers choose to hire VMS signs, benefiting from professional-grade equipment without the need for long-term investment.
VMS for Events
Portable CCTV to track bottlenecks
Deploying portable CCTV cameras along key routes, pinch points and entrance/exits can be a great way to monitor traffic flow. Deploying them around site improves overall event security, too.
Bespoke, full colour messaging VMS
SRL’s VMS (Variable Message Signs) can be used in several high-impact ways at events. They are a brilliant way to direct people to the correct areas to improve overall visitor experience.
High-impact from distance
Utilised at events like the London Marathon and Commonwealth Games, SRL’s VMS provide a cost-effective way for event organisers to communicate with members of the public.
An easy way to prevent incursions
Instaboom and Instaboom LITE are two examples of automated security barriers which have been used to help manage site visitors at events and festivals.
Products Designed for Events
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Supporting your event operations
SRL works in close partnership with event organisers, contractors and local authorities to design bespoke solutions tailored to each event’s size, location and risk profile.
From early planning through to live event delivery, our teams provide expert guidance on sign placement, messaging strategy and best practice for event traffic and crowd management.
With a nationwide depot network and 24/7 support, SRL offers rapid deployment, scalable resources and reliable service, helping ensure every event operates safely, efficiently, and sustainably.
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