The UK Department for Transport has expressed its support for the ITS World Congress 2027, which will take place in Birmingham from 25 to 29 October 2027, with the Minister for Local Transport, Lilian Greenwood, describing the event as a "fantastic opportunity to showcase UK transport innovations" on the global stage.
In a video message presented during the ITS UK Parliamentary Reception, the Minister said the Department for Transport is "delighted to support" the ITS World Congress 2027, describing it as an opportunity to demonstrate how technology is helping to create safer, smarter and more connected transport systems.
The Minister emphasised the government's ambition to deliver easier, safer and faster journeys for people across the country.
"We want to connect more people to more places through easier, safer, faster journeys, whoever and wherever they are," she said.
Intelligent transport technologies were highlighted as a key enabler of these ambitions, particularly in improving road safety and supporting the UK's wider transport objectives. Referring to the government's recently published road safety strategy, Greenwood said there is a need for "smarter solutions and more use of technology" to reduce deaths and serious injuries on the road network.
The Minister also pointed to several digital initiatives currently being developed by the Department for Transport, including the Connected Vehicle Services Framework, which will establish nationwide standards for introducing data-driven services on the road network.
She said the framework will help make journeys safer and easier, from flagging upcoming hazards to suggesting alternative routes, while ensuring these services are introduced consistently across the country.
Greenwood also highlighted ongoing work to digitise traffic regulation orders and traffic control information, alongside support for data-driven initiatives such as the National Parking Platform, the Bus Open Data Service and Street Manager.
Addressing ITS UK members directly, the Minister praised the intelligent transport sector's contribution, saying: "Your dedication is making that happen right now."
Taking place in Birmingham from 25 to 29 October 2027, the ITS World Congress 2027 will bring together transport technology leaders, policymakers and innovators from around the world to explore the future of connected mobility, data sharing, digital infrastructure and road safety.
The Congress will provide the UK with a global platform to demonstrate advances in connected mobility, data sharing, digital infrastructure and road safety to an international audience.