MAINTAINING THE ROADS: Transport Committee Chair says AI investment will accelerate UK transport performance
- Perry Richardson
- 10 hours ago
- 2 min read
The Government will continue investing in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technology to improve the performance of Britain’s transport network, according to Ruth Cadbury, Chair of the Transport Select Committee.
Speaking at The Transport AI summit in Parliament on Tuesday, Cadbury said AI had the potential to significantly improve road and rail operations, with benefits for reliability, maintenance and productivity. The event was organised by Chamber UK and attended by MPs, transport operators and technology providers.
Cadbury highlighted the Government’s ongoing focus on reducing potholes and train delays through partnerships with specialist technology firms. She linked better maintained roads and improved network connectivity to job creation and wider economic growth, particularly outside London.
Attendees were shown a live demonstration of autonomous road maintenance technology from Robotiz3d, which uses AI to detect early-stage road defects and carry out preventative repairs before potholes form.
Ruth Cadbury tells industry summit that artificial intelligence will support road maintenance, rail reliability and economic growth.
Industry participants said the deployment of AI-driven inspection and maintenance tools could help local authorities manage rising asset management costs while improving safety and network resilience. However, large-scale rollout remains dependent on procurement timelines and local authority funding decisions.
The Transport Select Committee is expected to continue examining the role of digital technology and automation in transport policy as part of its scrutiny of long-term infrastructure investment.
Graeme Stewart, Head of Public Sector at Check Point Software, said: “With AI set to play a major role in the future of the UK’s transport infrastructure, it’s crucial that the necessary security safeguards are put in place to protect these operations from outsider threats.
“Whether it’s the health service, schools or nurseries, hackers have proven that nothing is off limits, so policymakers overseeing roads, rail and transport systems must remain vigilant at all times. By adopting a comprehensive approach to cyber risk and resilience, our transport network can reap the benefits of AI, without introducing unnecessary data security risks.”
Daren Wood, Chief Technology Officer at rail technology provider Resonate Group, said: “Having a fully optimised transport network supported by the latest digital capabilities is vital for unlocking future economic growth. Britain’s roads and rail routes serve as critical national infrastructure connecting businesses, which in turn helps create jobs and opportunities for the next generation.
“The Government is right to continue to prioritise investment in this vital area, harnessing the latest data and AI skills to speed up and improve journeys, for the whole country.”
