ITS UK has published two new manifestos for Scotland and Wales, setting out how the transport technology sector can support smarter, greener, more integrated transport networks across both nations.

The manifestos, published ahead of upcoming elections in the Scottish and Welsh Parliaments on 7 May, outline a series of practical recommendations to maximise the role of transport technology in supporting economic growth, productivity, connectivity and passenger experiences.

Transport technology is already making a significant contribution to both nations’ economies. In Scotland, the sector supports over 3,345 jobs and contributes £240m in Gross Value Added (GVA), while in Wales it generates £100m in economic value and supports over 1,420 jobs.

Across both documents, ITS UK highlights the critical role of data, digital and physical infrastructure, appropriate funding and innovation in delivering modern transport networks that meet the needs of passengers, businesses and communities.

The Scottish manifesto focuses on five key priorities:

1. Provide support to renew obsolescent urban traffic signal infrastructure, futureproof the network and support safety, environmental and economic outcomes.
2. Build upon the MaaS Investment Fund to drive a more strategic approach to integrated transport in Scotland with leadership from Scottish Government.
3. Support greater budgets for operational expenditure at a local authority level, to purchase innovative software tech. 
4. Leverage DRT to increase public transport availability, especially in rural and island areas.
5. Deliver a Scottish Bus Open Data Service (BODS) to improve alignment between transport operators and passenger experience. 

The Welsh manifesto sets out four core recommendations:

1. Build on efforts to rollout smart ticketing to improve public transport integration, ridership and passenger experience.
2. Support the upgrade and renewal of traffic technology to make better use of existing infrastructure, improve safety and boost productivity
3. Mandate open, real-time data as the backbone of an integrated transport system
4. Continue to support on demand bus services across the nation

Together, the manifestos outline how Governments can support the deployment of technology across transport, highlighting the role of collaboration across national governments, local authorities and industry.

Max Sugarman (pictured), Chief Executive of ITS UK, said: 

“Transport networks in Scotland and Wales face a unique combination of challenges, from rural connectivity to ageing infrastructure.

“These manifestos set out how technology can help address those challenges with practical recommendations which have the power to improve journeys for passengers, supporting economic growth and making better use of existing networks.

“With the right policy framework and investment, transport technology can play a central role in delivering a more integrated and effective transport network across both nations.”

(Picture: ITS UK)