The Department for Transport (DfT) is looking at developing a data hub and mapping tool to support the UK’s freight industry.
It is planning to run a discovery process for the project as part of its Future of UK Freight strategy.
The hub and tool would provide a source of operational data on freight activity to be used by government bodies and operators in the sector.
The procurement notice for support in the discovery says that action is needed to enable the UK’s freight networks to meet growing demands for faster deliveries while reducing its impact on congestion and the environment.
One of the aims of the discovery project is to understand how the industry could benefit from increased access to shared data.
The notice also identifies the need to scope user journeys and requirements for a data hub and mapping tool, look at how it could support DfT strategy, review the data required and how to make it available, and consider the scope for improvements to forecasting and modelling in the industry.
Government and industry use
The DfT expects that the hub and tool would be used in central, regional and local government, and by freight industry bodies and hauliers in an effort to achieve operational efficiencies.
The move comes after the emergence of a plan for the DfT to digitise its collection of road freight data, replacing paper surveys with digital processes.
The Future of UK Freight Strategy is being developed with the aim of the industry becoming more efficient, innovative and resilient through to 2050.
Image by brianfagan, CC BY 2.0
