Transport is a core focus of the UK Government’s agenda. While connectivity is key, there’s a growing need for transport infrastructure to be sustainable, resilient, and inclusive.

We focus on decarbonising the sector and creating integrated transport systems, bridging the gap between groundbreaking ideas and the market. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and fostering collaboration, we’re transforming how people and goods move, making transport better for people, prosperity, and the planet.

of trips in towns and cities to be walked, wheeled, or cycled

Phase-out of new diesel
heavy goods vehicles

by 2040.

Net zero aviation and maritime

by 2050.

Our focus areas

A core focus of our work is reducing greenhouse gas emissions from transport and associated infrastructure. We help to develop and trial future fuels, build investor confidence, and create new business models to cut emissions across all transport modes. Our efforts include hydrogen, electrification, biofuels, and other sustainable energy solutions.

A sustainable transport network is vital if we are to have any chance of a sustainable future.

Andy Lord

Commissioner of Transport for London

We’re creating transport systems that are accessible, efficient, and secure for everyone. 

By collaborating with industry, SMEs, and government, we drive investment, accelerate technology adoption, and develop intelligent systems that optimise transport networks — from roads and railways to airports and entire cities. Through accelerators, testbeds, and trials, we’re building smarter, safer, and more inclusive systems that leverage automation and connectivity to improve efficiency and reduce risks for all.

Six airplanes flying in formation, leaving white contrails against a backdrop of clouds and blue sky.
Project

The tech leaders shaping the future of airspace

The time is ripe for the aerospace and technology sectors to collaborate towards a more integrated approach to alternative transportation and fuel options. And it’s an ideal opportunity to position the UK as a world leader in new aviation technology.
Freight train carrying cargo containers on parallel tracks under a cloudy sky with overhead electrical lines.
Project

Decarbonising the Rail Freight Estate

Connected Places Catapult, in collaboration with Department for Transport (DfT) are publishing this notice to explore the state of the market in relation to the business challenge described below.
A futuristic flying car with four large propellers, two on each side, hovers in the air against a soft gradient sky background.
Project

Future of Air Mobility Accelerator seeks innovators

The Future of Air Mobility (FAM) Accelerator will be selecting 12 SMEs to join a 6-month programme, where they will receive support from a consortium of industry, academic and regulatory partners on the trial and testing of disruptive innovations.
Aerial view of an airfield with runways, green fields, several buildings, and roads connecting various facilities on the premises. Surrounding areas consist of more green fields and a small residential area.
Project

Airspace Integration of Drones in support of COVID Response

The reliance on Temporary Danger Areas or any other airspace segregation to accommodate 'Beyond Visual Line of Sight' (BVLOS) Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) operations in the UK is sustainable. It is imperative that solutions of safely integrate BVLOS operations with existing airspace users are found to unlock the economic and societal benefits of UAVS.
A white drone flies near a construction site with cranes and partially built structures visible against a blue sky.
Project

Local BVLOS in Controlled Environments Pathfinder

This Pathfinder project aims to develop and demonstrate the viability of a new approach to flying ‘beyond visual line of sight’ (BVLOS) operations.
A drone with a mounted camera hovers near an industrial area with smoke stacks emitting white smoke against a clear blue sky.
Project

Unmanned Aerial System to detect marine ingress near nuclear power stations Pathfinder

This Pathfinder project aims to use UAS for the early detection of marine ingress events near coastal nuclear power stations to adjust water cooling mechanisms and protect both electricity generation and the environment.

The UK Transport sector encompasses vast networks, from aviation to maritime, highways to rail, as well as localised transport such as buses and trams and micromobility.

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Rail & Stations

Learn about our work to modernise rail networks and improve the passenger experience at stations.

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Air Mobility & Airports

Discover how we are transforming air travel and airport operations through cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices.

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Maritime & Ports

Explore our initiatives to decarbonise maritime transport and enhance the efficiency of port operations.

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.

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Transport Research and Innovation Grants

The Department for Transport (DfT), in partnership with Connected Places Catapult, offers Transport Research and…

Transport innovators urged to better consider accessibility in their designs

Leading lights from recent cohorts of the Transport Research & Innovation Grants programme gathered in Leeds for a showcase event…

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