12 November 2024: Today, the Government announced the cancellation of the £20 million Intelligent Traffic Management Fund, for innovation in the transport technology sector.

Max Sugarman, Chief Executive, Intelligent Transport Systems UK, said: “Cancelling the Intelligent Traffic Management Fund is a hugely missed opportunity for the Government and we would strongly urge them to reconsider this move.

“Local authorities and suppliers were gearing up to use the Fund to deliver the latest technology onto the network, such as machine learning and artificial intelligence, that would help optimise traffic flows, reduce congestion and, ultimately, support more effective, safer and greener roads for the travelling public. 

“The ITMF was directly aligned with the Department for Transport’s six priorities and the Chancellor’s aims to deliver public services more efficiently, as set out in the Budget. So, this cancellation is not only a blow to the traffic technology sector, but also an own goal for Government. We would urge them to now set out a forward plan for how they will work with the sector to support a more effective road network, building upon the vision they have for the transport system.”

Note to Editors

1. The news of the cancellation of the Intelligent Traffic Management Fund can be found here.
2. The Intelligent Traffic Management Fund (ITMF) was part of £70 million funding of improvements to traffic signals announced as part of the DfT’s Plan for Drivers by Secretary of State Mark Harper last October. The cancelled £20 million was expected to fund a small number of grants to groups led by local authorities of up to £2 million each.
3. About ITS UK: 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 175 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