DfT launches Transport Data Action Plan to strengthen use of data

The Department for Transport (DfT) has published its Transport Data Action Plan, setting out how it intends to improve the use, sharing and governance of data across the UK transport system.

image: DfT (extract from report cover)

The plan builds on the 2023 Transport Data Strategy and aligns with Better Connected, the newly published integrated national transport strategy and wider governmental priorities – using data to unlock digital transformation, innovation, and efficiencies, to further the country’s economic growth.

Focus on data quality, access and integration

The Action Plan outlines measures to improve the availability and quality of transport data, with a focus on making datasets easier to access and combine across modes. It emphasises the role of data in enabling more seamless, multi-modal journeys and supporting better decision-making by both operators and users.

DfT describes the plan as a step toward a more integrated transport system, where data can help link services and improve reliability. Earlier engagement work suggested the plan will “show how data can enable an integrated transport system,” particularly through real-world applications such as journey planning and network management.

The strategy also reflects a wider policy shift toward digital infrastructure, with government aiming to ensure that data underpins future transport services, from road networks to public transport.

Supporting innovation and emerging technologies

The Action Plan is closely linked to wider innovation programmes within DfT, including work on artificial intelligence and connected vehicle technologies. Previous policy commitments highlighted the need to create conditions for the “productive use of transport data” to support innovation and new services.

By improving access to high-quality datasets, the department aims to enable both public and private sector organisations to develop new tools, including applications that optimise traffic flow, improve asset management and enhance passenger information.

The plan also aligns with the government’s ambition to support emerging technologies such as autonomous vehicles and digital transport services, where large volumes of reliable data are essential.

Greater collaboration with industry

A central theme of the Action Plan is collaboration between government, local authorities and industry. DfT has engaged stakeholders through workshops and consultations to help shape the policy, including work with organisations such as ITS UK.

These engagements have focused on practical use cases, such as enabling smoother multi-modal journeys, and are intended to ensure that the plan reflects operational realities across the sector.

DfT has indicated that ongoing partnership working will be essential to deliver the plan, particularly given that much transport data is held by a mix of public bodies and private operators.

Addressing barriers to data sharing

The Action Plan also seeks to tackle longstanding barriers to effective data sharing, including inconsistent standards, limited interoperability and concerns around governance and security.

These issues were identified in the earlier Transport Data Strategy, which highlighted the need for improvements in data standards, skills and leadership, as well as clearer governance frameworks.

The new plan sets out actions intended to address these challenges, including developing common standards and improving coordination across organisations.

Max Sugarman, Chief Executive of ITS UK said, “As our transport system becomes increasingly reliant on technology, and the use of digital tools and AI within the sector increases, it is vital that industry and Government are aligned on how to make the best use of transport data.

“DfT’s recognition of data as a key, strategic asset is very positive. With ITS UK long championing an ‘open by default’ approach to data, data sharing and now data skills – through our Project ROUTE initiative, it is particularly encouraging to see the action plan’s commitment to addressing key issues around siloed thinking, standards, people, and culture, ensuring that the Government supports the sector by removing unnecessary barriers to the greater use of transport data.

“We look forward to continuing to work with the Government to ensure data and technology play a key role in supporting a safer, more efficient and more seamless network.”