It is with deep sadness that Highways reports the passing of Peter (Pete) Hutchinson, managing director of The Traffic Group.
Mr Hutchinson was a chartered physicist and one of the co-founders of AGD Systems Limited in 1991, along with his father Mike and his uncle Mark.
The company described him as 'the motivating force for the advancement of AGD’s radar detection technologies, their application in the ITS market, and the international expansion of the business'.
His leadership took AGD to its current prominent position in the ITS sector and saw the company make several strategic acquisitions, resulting in The Traffic Group's formation.
He was also instrumental in the award of several patents, three Queens Awards for Innovation and, through his commitment to building a sustainable business, two Green Apple awards for environmental best practice.
Described by those close to him as 'considerate, quick-witted and intelligent', he was widely respected within the ITS industry, having brought about positive change through working within TOPAS to revise specifications for industry products.
More recently, he was the lead author of the latest temporary traffic signal guidance for the traffic management sector.
His motto was 'if you enjoy your job, you never work a day in your life' and his positive approach to continuous improvement enabled his employees to thrive.
Outside of work, he was a passionate cyclist and won several national and international competitions in cyclo-cross. He also had a huge enthusiasm for motorsports, and his cars were his pride and joy.
The Traffic Group remains a family business, in the hands of Mike, Mark, Phil and Maxine Hutchinson.
Mr Hutchinson died on 30 May following a short illness. He is survived by his wife Rachel and their three children Kerrie, Ciara and Conor, brother Phil and his parents Mike and Hilary.
