2 April 2026: Today, the Government has published ‘Better Connected’, its strategy on integrated transport, committing to eight priorities: simplifying payments and information; providing safe and dependable journeys; making travel accessible and affordable; creating healthier communities; aligning transport and development; championing data and technology; empowering local leaders; and optimising decision-making and appraisal.

The strategy has a strong focus on technology, with contactless ticketing, data and innovation playing a key role, and the strategy promising to ‘embed technology and innovation in transport’. Better Connected includes £30 million for digital twins, £10 million for local authorities to trial innovative projects and £6 million for an integrated transport demonstrator.

Commenting on the strategy, Max Sugarman, Chief Executive of ITS UK said: “It’s fantastic to see technology play such a vital role in Better Connected, including in areas like digital twins, journey planning and navigation, smart ticketing and the more effective use of data.

“In our Manifesto for the Future of Transport, ITS UK recommended a number of policies reflected in this document, from making greater use of data to speeding up the roll-out of smart ticketing and providing a different approach to procurement that better leverages technology.

“Technology has a critical role to play in supporting a safer, more accessible and ‘joined-up’ transport network – and this strategy provides a great path forward, which industry is ready to support.”

Note to editor

1. Read the strategy here
2. About ITS UK: Intelligent Transport Systems UK (ITS UK) is the voice of the transport technology industry, a sector that provides £3.2bn in economic value, supports 45,000 jobs and provides £500mn in tax revenue. ITS UK provides a national platform to support the roll out of technology for a cleaner, safer and more effective transport network, both at home and abroad. We support our 200+ members – from both the private and public sector, and covering all sizes and disciplines – through advocacy to policymakers, connecting people and organisations, promoting the industry overseas and supporting innovation across the intelligent transport ecosystem. www.its-uk.org