Intelligent Transport Systems UK (ITS UK), the national industry association for transport technology, has responded to the Government’s Plan for Drivers, published today.

Max Sugarman, Chief Executive of Intelligent Transport Systems UK (ITS UK), said: “There is much to welcome in the Government’s new Plan for Drivers, including the high priority it places on transport technology and its role in supporting a more efficient and safer road system. In particular, it’s positive to see Government commit to deliver the National Parking Platform over the coming year, the £70 million of funding for smarter traffic management systems and the commitment to roll out new data services like the digitalisation of Traffic Regulation Orders.

“We note the announcement of a review into Low Traffic Neighbourhoods. Whilst the Government is right that local consent is needed, LTNs are one of many important tools for local authorities in improving safety and reducing noise and air pollution. ITS UK and our members look forward to seeing further details on the suggested guidance and wider review.

“The Plan includes measures on enforcement technology, but does not include any mention of the issues surrounding the approval of these products, which is limiting the industry’s ability to get new enforcement technology onto the network, and reducing investment in the sector. The current Home Office Type Approval process is opaque, with decisions taking excessively long and little dialogue between assessors and manufacturers. We urge the Government to back our ‘Let’s Get HOTA Working’ campaign and review the process to ensure it remains robust, but provides more certainty for the industry.”

Note to Editors

1. The Government’s Plan for Drivers can be found here
2. Find out more about ITS UK’s ‘Let’s Get HOTA Working’ campaign here
3. Intelligent Transport Systems UK (ITS UK) is the voice of the transport technology industry. 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 150+ members – from both the private and public sector, and covering all sizes and disciplines – through advocacy to policy makers, connecting people and organisations, promoting the industry overseas and supporting innovation across the intelligent transport ecosystem. www.its-uk.org