The UK government has announced plans to open up data on planned changes to the road network, highlighting potential traffic jams up to months in advance.
Tech firms could soon get access to this data thanks to a review of legislation around Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) – the orders behind restrictions on the road network that allow for temporary roadworks or permanent changes to the road.
Companies will potentially be able to develop and enhance navigational apps powered by AI, warning drivers up to months in advance of planned disruption to routes and offering alternatives to help save time and money.
George Freeman, minister for the future of transport, said: “As a road user, there is nothing more frustrating than discovering roadworks and getting stuck in traffic jams. This announcement will help open up data, reducing congestion, pollution and frustration for road users.”
Working with organisations including local authorities and the CAV sector, the department says it will look at introducing legislation to make it easier to access data around the predicted 50,000 yearly road closures.
The review will also support the UK government’s Future of Mobility Grand Challenge by considering whether current legislation is fit to maximise the potential of future technologies.
According to the Department for Transport, evidence suggests that opening up TRO data could also help with route planning systems for self-driving vehicles.
