Data to reduce traffic congestion – And help self-driving vehicles navigate
A partnership between Ordnance Survey, the Department for Transport, the British Parking Association, and GeoPlace, could dramatically reduce traffic congestion on UK roads by making crucial data on planned changes to the road network available to tech companies to build artificial intelligence routing platforms.
Through the Department for Transport’s review of legislation around Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs), the data could soon be made available to tech firms to develop and enhance navigational apps. It is hoped the apps could warn drivers up to months in advance of planned disruption to routes and offer alternatives, potentially saving them time and money.
The initiative aims to give drivers the confidence to plan important trips without the fear of being stuck in traffic, and has the potential to reduce congestion, delays and air pollution.
Development of proposals to make it easier for authorities, private app developers and companies to access data around the predicted 50,000 yearly road closures and use it to its full potential, contributes to Government’s commitment to make travelling cleaner and greener, safer, easier and more reliable.
Minister of State, George Freeman. said: “When councils and utilities plans work months in advance, why don’t we tell drivers so that they can avoid roadworks? Today’s announcement to work towards sharing Government data will reduce congestion, pollution and frustration.”
Ordnance Survey Director, David Henderson, said: “This review supports the Government’s Future of Mobility Grand Challenge, which aims to make journeys in the UK greener, safer, easier and more reliable. It’s very pleasing that once again Ordnance Survey is able to use location and data has in aiding positive change.”
Evidence suggests that opening TRO data up will also help with the development of route planning systems for self-driving vehicles.
For further information about Ordnance Survey, interviews and images contact Keegan Wilson, 02380 055332 keegan.wilson@os.uk
What are TROs? Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) are orders made by traffic authorities (local authorities, Transport for London and Highways England) and define the rules of the road network. They are the legal force behind restrictions such as speed limit changes, parking restrictions, and temporary closures for street parties or road works.
About Ordnance Survey
Ordnance Survey is Great Britain’s mapping service for government, business and citizens. Our geospatial data serves the national interest by enabling a safe, healthy and prosperous society. Everything happens somewhere, and every day we support the delivery of efficient public services, support land management & planning, help protect our environment and underpin national security, infrastructure and emergency services. With our partners, we provide expertise and accurate location data and services to help create a resilient nation, ready for next-generation technology. We’re driven to ensure Britain can build a world-leading digital and connected economy of the future