Coeval Limited was commissioned to design, supply, and install a Variable Message Sign (VMS) system in the Cairngorms to improve real-time communication with visitors.
The site experiences rapidly changing weather conditions, particularly high winds, which can impact the safe operation of mountain facilities such as the Cairngorm Mountain Railway and snowsports activities. The primary objective was to provide clear, immediate, and highly visible messaging to visitors approaching the site, helping them make informed decisions before proceeding further.
The Cairngorms present a uniquely demanding environment for infrastructure projects. Extreme weather conditions including high winds, snow, ice, and low temperatures, combined with the remote location, create challenges for both installation and maintenance. In addition, safety-critical communication is essential, as messages must be instantly readable and reliable for fluctuating visitor volumes throughout the year.
Coeval Limited deployed a robust LED-based Variable Message Sign designed specifically for harsh outdoor environments. The sign features a high-brightness LED display for visibility in fog, snow, and low light, and allows remote updates for real-time messaging. The weather resistant enclosure ensures durability, while the multi-line display provides clear and concise communication of important information.
The implementation of the VMS has significantly improved safety by enabling immediate communication of hazardous conditions such as high winds, helping to prevent unsafe travel. It has also enhanced the visitor experience by providing clear, up-to-date information before arrival, reducing uncertainty and frustration. Operational efficiency has improved as staff can update messages remotely without needing to be on site, reducing manual intervention and supporting better traffic and visitor management.
The system has proven reliable in harsh conditions, continuing to operate effectively despite exposure to extreme weather. The signage clearly demonstrates its effectiveness through real-world use, displaying messages such as closures due to high winds and general information regarding railway and snowsports operations.
The installation of the Variable Message Sign at the Cairngorms highlights the importance of dynamic, real-time communication in safety-critical outdoor environments. By combining durable hardware with flexible messaging capabilities, the solution successfully addresses the challenges of a remote, weather-exposed location while significantly improving both safety outcomes and visitor experience.
