A traffic signal designer designs the layout and timing of traffic signal installations - from a standalone puffin or toucan crossing to a complex multi-phase signalised junction or SCOOT urban traffic control area. In a development context they are most commonly engaged when a planning condition or Section 278 agreement requires a new signalised junction or pedestrian crossing, or when an existing junction needs to be upgraded or retimed to accommodate additional traffic from a new development. Their work must comply with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions (TSRGD) and requires approval from the highway authority before installation.
What they do
- Carry out LINSIG signal timing optimisation and capacity assessment
- Design stage plans, intergreens and signal timings
- Produce signal junction geometry and equipment layout drawings
- Prepare TSRGD compliance submissions for highway authority approval
- Design pedestrian crossings - puffin, toucan, pegasus and pelican types
- Carry out SCOOT detector and timing reviews
- Specify signal controller equipment and communications
- Manage temporary signal approvals for construction traffic management
When you need one
A traffic signal designer is required when a development triggers new signal-controlled junctions or pedestrian crossings, or when existing signals need to be modified as part of a Section 278 highway improvement.
Typical costs (UK, 2025)
| Job type | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Signal timing assessment | £800 - £2,000 |
| New signal junction design | £1,500 - £5,000 |
| Pedestrian crossing design | £800 - £2,000 |
| Signal approval submission (TSRGD compliance) | £500 - £1,500 |
| SCOOT timing update | £400 - £900 |
| Full signal scheme design | £2,500 - £8,000+ |
| Hourly rate | £75 - £130 / hr |
Costs increase significantly for complex multi-phase junctions and when trunk road National Highways approval is required alongside the local highway authority approval.
Qualifications to look for
The primary professional body for traffic signal designers working on highway schemes. MCIHT is recognised by highway authorities across the UK for Section 278 signal design submissions.
MIHEng is an alternative qualification for highways engineers and signal designers, widely recognised by local highway authorities. Often held alongside MCIHT.
How to find a reputable traffic signal designer
Frequently asked questions
What is SCOOT?
SCOOT (Split Cycle Offset Optimisation Technique) is an urban traffic control system that automatically adjusts traffic signal timings in real time based on loop detector measurements of traffic flow. It is used in most UK town and city centres to minimise delay and journey times. A traffic signal designer with SCOOT experience can carry out timing updates and system expansions.
What is LINSIG?
LINSIG is a software tool used to design and optimise the timing of traffic signals at isolated signalised junctions. It models the relationship between signal timings, traffic flows, degree of saturation and delay. LINSIG is part of the standard toolkit for traffic engineers carrying out capacity assessments and is often required by highway authorities as part of a Section 278 signal design submission.
What approvals are required for new traffic signals?
Traffic signals on public roads require approval from the highway authority and must comply with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions (TSRGD). The controller and signal equipment must be type-approved. On trunk roads, National Highways (or Transport Scotland or Transport for Wales) approval is also required. The traffic signal designer manages the technical approval process on behalf of the developer.