Project Summary

Beta Streets tested Engage 360, an interactive street‑design platform using 360° imagery and a 3D asset library to help communities and councils visualise road changes in real time. The trial involved capturing 150 km of imagery, integrating it with the platform, and delivering hybrid engagement through community events, online access and school workshops. The tool aimed to make rural transport design more accessible, increase collaboration, and help Suffolk County Council understand local safety concerns and improvement opportunities.

Project Achievements

Over 120 users tested the platform, submitting 150+ comments that informed transport planning. Nine community events were delivered, generating strong public enthusiasm—89% wanted more involvement in street design. Social value was estimated at £3.30 per £1 spent.

Conclusions

The trial showed that Engage 360 can make rural street design more inclusive by enabling residents, officers and stakeholders to visualise and discuss design changes in a shared digital environment. The platform successfully moved to a more advanced technology readiness level and demonstrated value in supporting engagement, problem identification and collaborative decision‑making. Despite challenges related to elections and rural connectivity, the tool proved adaptable and effective in real‑world settings, with feedback highlighting its usefulness in bringing community voices into transport and public realm planning.

Next Steps

Beta Streets will finalise development of Engage 360, progressing the platform towards a fully commercial product. The company plans to expand its user base, grow subscription services, and develop partnerships with suppliers and local authorities. Future activity will focus on product launch, additional service offerings for 360‑degree data capture, and showcasing the platform at UK and international events to support further investment and uptake.