News

Everything You Need to Know About the VMS Barrier

At MVIS, innovation is at the heart of everything we do. As part of the Torquay Group, we’ve been able to collaborate with our sister companies Bartco and Solar Gates, combining expertise to create pioneering solutions for the industry. One of the most exciting results of this collaboration is the VMS Barrier – a ground-breaking product that unites our strengths into one portable, powerful, and versatile solution.

By combining Bartco’s cutting-edge software, MVIS’ trusted VMS hardware, and Solar Gates’ industry-leading barrier technology, we’ve developed a product that has the potential to transform traffic management and site safety across the UK and beyond.

Launch at Plantworx

The VMS Barrier made its debut at Plantworx, presented by Business Development Manager, Juliette Wright, and Marketing Executive, Ben Ashman. Visitors were impressed not only by the portability of the solution but also by its ability to display dynamic messages on the barrier itself – offering both practical traffic control and a welcoming, informative experience for site visitors.

Product Features & Technology

WebStudio

At the core of the VMS Barrier is Bartco’s WebStudio, the market-leading VMS programming platform, fine-tuned over more than a decade of use in the UK and Australia. With WebStudio, users can:

• View a live map of hired assets
• Track exact locations and access directions
• Program multiple units at the touch of a button
• Build and schedule text messages or graphics
• Monitor battery voltages and communications
• Enable speed radar-activated messages
• Review system history
• Manage access with restricted logins
• Create a library of messages for fast deployment

This functionality makes WebStudio the perfect backbone for the VMS Barrier, ensuring ease of use and efficient asset management.

   

Barrier Arm

From Solar Gates’ Instaboom product line, the integrated barrier arm adds a new level of traffic enforcement. Paired with ANPR technology, site managers can whitelist or blacklist vehicles, automatically granting or denying access. For over a decade, Solar Gates’ barriers have been trusted to keep sites safe and secure – and now, that same reliability is embedded in the VMS Barrier.

VMS Screen

MVIS’ portable VMS technology, known nationwide since supporting the London 2012 Olympics, plays a central role in this product. The VMS screen allows two different messages to be displayed depending on whether the barrier is up or down – for example, “Wait for Access” when closed and “Drive Safe” when open. This not only improves communication but also reinforces a culture of safety on-site.

ANPR

The integrated Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system further strengthens security. Tailored to site-specific requirements, the ANPR camera ensures only authorised vehicles gain access while deterring trespassers and maintaining pedestrian safety.

Trailer-Based Portability

True to the Torquay Group’s reputation, the VMS Barrier is designed for portability. Mounted on an MVIS trailer, it can be towed easily between sites without the need for heavy lifting equipment. This flexibility makes it a cost-effective and practical solution compared to traditional static barrier systems.

Why the VMS Barrier Stands Out

The VMS Barrier is more than just a product – it’s a complete solution. By merging traffic control, communication, and security into one portable system, it offers:

• Enhanced site safety and access control
• Improved visitor and workforce communication
• Rapid deployment and relocation
• A proven, reliable technology base from three market leaders

See It for Yourself

The VMS Barrier is set to become a leader in the industry, offering unmatched versatility and innovation. If you didn’t get a chance to see it at Plantworx, we encourage you to reach out to our dedicated sales team to arrange a demonstration.