2027 Programme
Interchange 2027 reframes transport around outcomes – driving growth, enabling net zero, improving journeys, and strengthening resilience in a changing world.
Economic growth, net zero, resilience, and better everyday lives
For decades, debate on transport infrastructure has focused on modes, projects and delivery pipelines. But national priorities are now defined differently – by the outcomes that matter to people and the economy. Transport is no longer being judged simply by how and how much is built, but by what it enables.
At the same time, the systems that underpin transport are under growing pressure. Economic rebalancing, climate adaptation, energy constraints, and rapid technological change are reshaping what good infrastructure looks like. The challenge is no longer sectoral – it is systemic.
Interchange is essentially a national platform for leaders responsible for shaping transport and infrastructure outcomes to come together around a single question: how do we design and deliver transport systems that improve lives, strengthen the economy, and remain resilient in a changing world?
As a multistream conference programme Interchange moves the conversation from infrastructure as an end in itself, to infrastructure as a means to deliver national priorities.
By focusing on outcomes rather than assets, and systems rather than silos, Interchange aims to help define a more coherent and deliverable approach to the UK’s infrastructure future.
What this means for Interchange in 2027
We will reposition the conference programme around outcomes, replacing the thematic pillars of energy, place, environment and digital – which now become cross cutting inputs. Instead the programme will be structured around four interconnected outcomes that reflect long-term national priorities.
Interchange also incorporates the ITS UK showcase and ICG Live event.
Productive & inclusive growth
Shifting the focus from building infrastructure to unlocking economic potential
How transport investment drives GDP, productivity, trade and opportunity – supporting regional rebalancing and widening access to jobs, skills and education.
Net zero, energy
& environmental resilience
Energy transition, climate adaptation and environmental stewardship as a single integrated challenge
How the transition to net zero is delivered in practice, alongside the need to adapt infrastructure to climate risk, energy constraints and environmental recovery.
Seamless, intelligent mobility
Closing the gap between system design and user experience
How data, digital systems and integration can transform fragmented transport networks into a single, user-focused mobility system.
Liveable places & better
everyday journeys
Liveable places as the core measure of success for transport investment
How transport shapes the quality of daily life – reducing friction, improving safety, enhancing public space, and supporting healthier communities.
These are not isolated themes, but interdependent national challenges that must be solved together. By design, Interchange will bring together the disciplines, sectors and decision-makers needed to turn these challenges into shared opportunities to shape better outcomes for the country.
To discuss how to get involved please email andrew.dowding@meetingsofminds.co.uk