On 7 April 2026, we at Intelligent Transport Systems UK (ITS UK) published two new manifestos for Scotland and Wales, setting out how the transport technology sector can help deliver smarter, greener and more integrated transport networks across both nations.

We released these ahead of the upcoming Scottish and Welsh Parliament elections on 7 May, outlining practical recommendations to maximise the role of transport technology in driving economic growth, improving productivity, strengthening connectivity and enhancing passenger experiences.

Transport technology is already playing an important role in both economies. In Scotland, our sector supports over 3,345 jobs and contributes £240 million in Gross Value Added (GVA). In Wales, it generates £100 million in economic value and supports more than 1,420 jobs.

Across both manifestos, we highlight the critical importance of data, digital and physical infrastructure, as well as the need for the right funding and a strong focus on innovation. These are all essential to delivering modern transport networks that meet the needs of passengers, businesses and communities.

Scotland

In Scotland, we’re focusing on five key priorities. We’re calling for support to renew ageing urban traffic signal infrastructure, helping to futureproof the network and improve safety, environmental performance and economic outcomes. We also want to build on the MaaS Investment Fund to take a more strategic approach to integrated transport, with clear leadership from the Scottish Government.

At a local level, we believe authorities need greater operational budgets so they can invest in innovative software technologies. We’re also encouraging the use of demand-responsive transport (DRT) to expand public transport availability, particularly in rural and island areas. Finally, we’re calling for the delivery of a Scottish Bus Open Data Service (BODS) to better align transport operators and improve the passenger experience.

Wales

For Wales, we’ve set out four core recommendations. We want to build on progress in rolling out smart ticketing to improve integration, boost ridership and enhance passenger journeys. We’re also calling for upgrades and renewal of traffic technology to make better use of existing infrastructure, improve safety and increase productivity.

A key priority for us is mandating open, real-time data as the foundation of a fully integrated transport system. Alongside this, we want continued support for on-demand bus services across the country.

Work with the sector

Taken together, these manifestos show how governments can support the deployment of technology across transport, and underline the importance of collaboration between national governments, local authorities and industry.

As our Chief Executive, Max Sugarman, puts it: “Transport networks in Scotland and Wales face a unique mix of challenges, from rural connectivity to ageing infrastructure. Through these manifestos, we’re showing how technology can help tackle those issues with practical, deliverable solutions that improve journeys, support economic growth and make better use of existing networks.”

With the right policy framework and investment, we believe transport technology can play a central role in creating a more integrated and effective transport system across both nations.

We’re now calling on policymakers in Scotland and Wales to work closely with us and the wider transport technology sector to deliver these recommendations and unlock the full benefits of innovation.