Case Study: Thames Water Improves Traffic Management

Thames Water Improves Traffic Management with Messagemaker Displays

In June 2025, Thames Water purchased VMS Mini Units from Messagemaker Displays to improve traffic management at public water distribution sites in Maidenhead and Slough. With the need to manage large numbers of vehicles safely and efficiently, Thames Water required a flexible, effective solution that would ensure smooth operations for both staff and the public.

The Problem

When Thames Water set up sites for the public to collect water, managing traffic flow became a major challenge. Vehicles needed clear direction to navigate safely, avoid congestion, and comply with on-site safety measures such as switching off engines and applying handbrakes or following directions. Without clear communication tools, sites risked confusion, inefficiency, and safety hazards.

The Solution

Messagemaker Displays supplied six VMS (Variable Message Signs) Mini Units to help Thames Water communicate directly with drivers. VMS on the Mini Unit portable base are an ideal solution for sharing traffic information or communicating other messages to road users and not taking up too much space.

Well-suited for temporary traffic management, they can be deployed for directing vehicles around roadworks, outside construction sites, at events, or as in this case for managing vehicle flow and safety at public water distribution points. These portable, easy-to-store units displayed key messages including “Directions to Water Site” and “Turn off Engine.” With each unit could scroll through up to ten messages, offering supervisors the flexibility to adapt instructions to changing site conditions.

The RCS guide setup also made it easy for staff to configure the signs, ensuring fast deployment and reliable performance. Compared to larger trailer-based options, the compact mini units offered superior manoeuvrability, space-saving storage, and practicality for Thames Water’s requirements.

The Service

Thames Water’s logistics team managed to rollout the Mini Units, with supervisors on-site responsible for setup and operation. Throughout the project, Messagemaker Displays provided exceptional support: Laura was always on hand to assist, whether by sending clear setup guides or connecting Thames Water with the wider support team. This responsive approach ensured the signs were implemented smoothly and effectively.

“The support from the Messagemaker team was brilliant,” said Ethan O’Connor, Renewals & Logistics at Thames Water. “They were always there to provide guides and support when we needed them, ensuring the process ran smoothly from start to finish.”