Northern Ireland’s Department for Infrastructure (DfI) is planning to create a digital twin of the country’s roads claimed to be the most detailed in the UK.

It has awarded a contract to roadscape intelligence company Gaist to deliver a survey of the entire road network using AI, HD imaging and roadscape modelling technology and deliver a digital twin of every road in Northern Ireland, says UK Authority.

DfI said this will map all carriageways and the location of footways, cycleways and associated road assets – such as signage, manhole covers, lamp posts and verges – to create the most complete and consistent picture of a national network ever produced in the UK.

Once the survey is complete, the Gaist system will not identify and prioritise urgent maintenance, and perform lifecycle modelling that will provide clear long term projections of how the road network will perform under different investment scenarios.

This is expected to help DfI to plan investments more effectively, reduce carbon impact from maintenance and optimise the safety and lifespan of its assets.

The survey will also help to ensure that utilities companies undertaking street works reinstate the roads to industry standards. By including footways in its modelling, it will highlight where improvements can be made to support safer, more accessible walking and cycling routes and active travel efforts.

In addition, the department will be able to better understand the investment required to prepare for emerging technologies such as driverless cars. 

Its director for road asset maintenance, Colin Sykes, said:

“This work will give us the clarity and evidence we need to maximise investment, improve safety and deliver a better experience for everyone who relies on our road network.” 

The initiative is expected to take six months to complete.

(Picture: Mapillary)