The Government has announced it is setting up a digital taskforce to assess the future needs of the UK in building infrastructure.
Named the Digital Framework Task Group (DFTG), it will be run by the University of Cambridge’s Centre for Digital Built Britain (CDBB) and advise HM Treasury on how data, AI and machine learning can help to predict what is needed from major construction projects.
Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury Robert Jenrick said: “We are investing record amounts in UK infrastructure to build the roads, railways, schools and hospitals we need.
“There are vast amounts of data and information on the UK’s infrastructure, but only with better coordination can its incredible potential help us meet the country’s needs.
“What we’ve announced today will support this ambition. That way vital projects like transport, housing and broadband will complement each other and help us ensure our infrastructure is fit for the future.”
The DFTG will collaborate with industry, policy makers and academia to develop and encourage adoption of a digital framework for infrastructure data.
The framework will unlock the potential of ‘digital twins’ – digital recreations of specified areas that can be used in modelling for infrastructure – and the next generation of digital construction and smarter infrastructure advances.
The taskforce forms part of the Government’s response to the National Infrastructure Commission’s December report, Data for the Public Good, and builds on its recommendations.
The DFTG will report to government in October of this year on how to implement the full framework.
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