New research hub will prepare UK transport systems for low carbon future

The UK government has announced that a new research hub is being launched to boost measures to decarbonise and improve transport, reducing emissions through improved infrastructure and building resilience across transport networks and streetscapes.

Applications are now open for organisations to host the new Net Zero Transport for a Resilient Future Research Hub, with the government pledging £10 million in funding for the centre, which will establish a UK centre of excellence for transport innovation.

Funding comes from the Department for Transport, UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and organisations in the Transport Research and Innovation Board.

Decarbonisation Minister Jesse Norman said, “Innovation is key to the growth of the transport sector, and the creation of high-skilled jobs and business opportunities across the UK.

“By working to develop real-world solutions across a wide range of academic disciplines, such as architecture and design, computing and behavioural sciences, the hub will help support innovation in the UK, which could lead to high-skilled jobs across the UK.

“It will aim to provide a link for early stage innovation and later stage demonstration across multiple transport modes to create, develop and test climate resilient solutions that recognise how different places and types of transport will require different answers.

“Partnering with UK government departments, business and internationally, we will fast-track the development of solutions necessary for meeting UK net zero targets, through strategic cross-UKRI investments, keeping the UK at the forefront of the green industrial revolution.

UKRI building a green future lead, Professor Sir Duncan Wingham, added, “The Resilient Future Research Hub will lead the cross-UK research needed to effect transformational change in the transport sector.

“It will also help to ensure our transport systems remain resilient to hazards caused by extreme weather events and climactic changes that are already apparent.”

UKRI’s Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council will manage the delivery of the hub funding. Applications to run the hub closes on 25 April.