Innovation in highways and integrated transport is transforming how transport networks are planned, operated and connected. Emerging technologies are helping create safer, more connected and more sustainable transport networks across the UK.
For high-potential businesses and SMEs
Have you got an innovative pilot, project or solution?
For transport operators, infrastructure owners and industry partners
Interested in finding new solutions for transport infrastructure?
Transport systems are essential to keeping people, goods and services moving efficiently across the UK. But increasing pressure on infrastructure, congestion, decarbonisation targets and fragmented transport systems are driving demand for smarter and more connected solutions.
Better-integrated transport networks can improve reliability, reduce emissions, support economic growth and create more accessible journeys for passengers and communities.
Active travel and micro-mobility. Enhancing walking, cycling, and e-scooter infrastructure and legislation.
Maintenance and renewals. Extending asset life and reducing disruption.
Accessible and inclusive journeys. Creating a barrier-free transport system by commissioning robust evidence and actively listening to the voices and expertise of disabled people.
Connected and autonomous mobility. Enabling self-driving passenger and freight vehicles.
Safe and reliable operations. Improving road safety and network performance. Creating more seamless passenger journeys.
Smart roads and connected infrastructure. Using data to optimise highway management, operations, accessibility and network management
Decarbonised mobility. Accelerating transition to non-fossil fuel transport, especially for heavy vehicles and machinery; addressing market failures in infrastructure investment.
Integrated network planning. Aligning highways with wider transport systems. Improving stations, bus stops, ports and airports.
Collaborating with the Department for Transport
We work closely with the Department for Transport (DfT) to drive innovation and deliver transformative projects across the UK transport sector. Our partnership enables us to support cutting-edge research, develop new technologies, and create solutions that address the most pressing challenges in transport today.
The Department for Transport (DfT), in partnership with Connected Places Catapult, offers Transport Research and…
It means using smart technology, data and new approaches to make highways and the wider transport network safer, more efficient, more sustainable and easier to use.
We collaborate with highways operators, contractors and suppliers on innovation projects, trials, digital solutions and decarbonisation‑focused programmes across the road network. Get in touch
Connected Places Catapult helps connect SMEs and start‑ups with highways partners, funding opportunities and real‑world trials to test and scale their innovative technologies. Learn more
We support the UK government’s Better Connected strategy by testing smart, integrated transport solutions, influencing policy and helping local authorities implement data‑driven transport systems.
We partner with National Highways on trials, digital innovation and smart infrastructure projects that improve safety, performance and decarbonisation on the strategic road network.
We work with the National Centre for Accessible Transport and others to embed accessibility into infrastructure, digital services and journey design so transport works better for everyone.
