Digital Roads 2025
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
On 2 September 2021, National Highways (formerly Highways England) launched Digital Roads 2025, through which they will work with tech partners to adopt digital technologies for the move to electric, connected and autonomous vehicles.
[edit] Initial components of the programme
Digital Roads 2025 includes initiatives that will work together to predict road maintenance requirements and improve the efficiency of repairs.
One component is a virtual twin of the road network that will see drawings and static models replaced with live, digital versions that can identify when maintenance is needed.
The work is being undertaken with assistance from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), the EU MSCA COFUND programme, construction and engineering company Costain and the University of Cambridge. Funds for the system are coming from two grants: the £8.6 million EPSRC Digital Roads Prosperity Partnership grant and the £6 million EU MSCA COFUND Future Roads Fellowships programme.
Intelligent road materials are also part of the programme. Once incorporated into existing road surfaces, these materials will be able to combine ‘live’ data with a digital twinning system that visualises the road and its condition. This technology will make it possible to identify when maintenance work is needed and will allow roads to repair themselves using self-healing technology.
Also in use or being developed are connected and autonomous plant, off-site fabrication and modular construction methods. It is hoped tthese systems could reduce scheme delivery times by up to 50% while limiting disruption (and increasing safety) for drivers and cutting the associated carbon emissions by around 50%.
[edit] Data driven networks
Network operation is becoming more automated and data driven. The use of technology - such as sensors - enables National Highways to pre-empt situations rather than just respond to them. This includes forecasting and adjusting conditions to respond to traffic levels, weather and environmental conditions.
Communication with drivers is also improving, ensuring that accurate information is available to help plan journeys through digital channels. Longer term, the deployment of connected and autonomous vehicles is expected to improve traffic flow and reduce incidents by up to 90%.
[edit] Looking beyond 2025
In development for 2050 and beyond are freight platooning, personalised in-vehicle messaging (as well as vehicles sharing data) and roads that relay information without the use of traditional signage. Additional financial resources will be provided through the Innovation and Modernisation designated fund.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Defining the digital twin: seven essential steps.
- Digital twin.
- Five years of road investment strategy.
- Government construction and infrastructure pipelines.
- Highways England.
- How can infrastructure be retrofitted in the digital age?
- How to keep roads future-proof.
- Road investment strategy.
- Smart motorways procurement plan.
- What a digital twin could be.
[edit] External resources
Featured articles and news
Grenfell Tower Inquiry announcement
Phase 2 hearings come to a close and the final report due in September.
Progress from Parts L, F and O: A whitepaper, one year on.
A replicated study to understand the opinion of practitioners.
A distinct type of countryside that should be celebrated.
Should Part O be extended to existing buildings?
EAC brands heatwave adaptation a missed opportunity.
Definition of Statutory in workplace and facilities management
Established by IWFM, BESA, CIBSE and BSRIA.
Tackling the transition from traditional heating systems
59% lack the necessary information and confidence to switch.
The general election and the construction industry
As PM, Rishi Sunak announces July 4 date for an election.
Home improvements swapped for green energy upgrades
As applications down since and desire to reduce bills up.
Eco apprenticeships continue help grow green workforce
A year after being recognised at the King's coronation.
The Use of Natural Insulation Materials in Retrofit
New paper from STBA with support from SDF.
National Retrofit Hub in partnership with InstallerSHOW.
Permitted development rights for agricultural buildings
The changes coming into effect as of May 21, 2024.
Biodiversity and the built environment digital series
The nature of building, with CIOB and CWP.
A call for prevention and sensitive re-use.
Risks to the long-term effectiveness of the BNG scheme
National Audit Office publish review of Biodiversity Net Gain.
The CIAT principal designer register
Providing assurance and verification of the capability and competence of registered ATs.
Scottish Government action to reach net-zero targets
Retrofit expert group highlight critical actions needed.