Can I please request all documentation related to the operation of the roadside variable message sign (VMS) at the A204/5/6 roundabout, in front of the Woolwich Ferry South Pier? This is the sign that displays the ferry status, running times, etc. I have contacted Greenwich Council already and they have confirmed that the sign is operated by TfL. I'm particularly interested in which teams are responsible for deciding on and updating the text on the sign, how the new text is decided and if it is possible to get the current text of the sign as some sort of data feed, similar to the VMS feed published here: https://tfl.gov.uk/tfl/syndication/feeds/vms_feed.xml

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TfL Ref: FOI-1975-2021

Thank you for your request received by Transport for London (TfL) on 31 December 2020, asking for information about a variable message sign on the roundabout in front of the Woolwich Ferry South Pier.

Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act and our information access policy.  I can confirm that we hold some of the information you require. You asked:

Can I please request all documentation related to the operation of the roadside variable message sign (VMS) at the A204/5/6 roundabout, in front of the Woolwich Ferry South Pier? This is the sign that displays the ferry status, running times, etc. I have contacted Greenwich Council already and they have confirmed that the sign is operated by TfL.

I'm particularly interested in which teams are responsible for deciding on and updating the text on the sign, how the new text is decided and if it is possible to get the current text of the sign as some sort of data feed, similar to the VMS feed published here: https://tfl.gov.uk/tfl/syndication/feeds/vms_feed.xml

The variable message sign on the roundabout is locally controlled by the management team at Woolwich Ferry. The sign is used to display the operating hours and any service delays. Regular messages include:

One Vessel Service 0700 – 1900

Ferry closed

One hour delay

Two hour delay

The management team logs onto a web page to update the messages. There is no data feed.

If you are considering submitting a further request please think carefully about whether the request is essential at this current time, as answering FOI/EIR requests will require the use of limited resources and the attention of staff who could be supporting other essential activity. Where requests are made, please note that our response time may be impacted by the current situation.

If this is not the information you are looking for, or if you are unable to access it for any reason, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal as well as information on copyright and what to do if you would like to re-use any of the information we have disclosed.

Yours sincerely

Eva Hextall

FOI Case Management Team

General Counsel

Transport for London

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