Up to £2 million has been set aside by the Department for Transport to improve congestion on Britain’s roads.

Councils and local authorities have until the end of September to demonstrate how they would develop projects to enhance journeys in a bid to secure a share of the £2 million pot.

One previous scheme saw Westminster City Council develop an app that directed drivers to empty parking spots. Some of the proposals so far include new technology where vehicles communicate with each other to prevent collisions and avoid the resulting disruption, as well as roadside sensors that give drivers real time traffic information.

Roads minister Andrew Jones said: “I want to deliver better, more enjoyable journeys and this £2 million fund will help councils invest in new technology to enhance the experience of driving.

“Britain has a proud history of innovation and I am delighted that councils will be able to use this money to develop systems to make journeys easier and safer.”

Bids will range between £30,000 and £300,000, with councils required to put up at least five per cent of the project’s cost and complete the project by March 2018.