Location data and technologies have become integral to our daily lives, from the convenience of online maps to the efficiency of delivery services. The UK Geospatial Strategy 2030 aims to leverage the power of geospatial applications and services to enhance public sector delivery, improve emergency responses, and ensure optimal utilization of taxpayers’ money. By embracing new opportunities and building on past successes, the strategy aims to position the UK as a global science and technology superpower.
The Importance of Geospatial Strategy
Viscount Camrose, Minister for AI and Intellectual Property at the Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology, emphasizes the significance of location data and technologies in powering the UK’s economy. The Geospatial Strategy 2030 serves as a foundation for sustained innovation, driving economic growth, and integrating geospatial data into critical decision-making processes that impact our daily lives. The strategy’s key missions are as follows:
Embrace Enabling Technologies to Accelerate Geospatial Innovation
The strategy focuses on harnessing emerging technologies, such as AI and satellite imaging, to drive geospatial innovation. By staying at the forefront of rapidly evolving technologies, the UK can seize new opportunities and lead the way in developing groundbreaking solutions.
Drive Greater Use of Geospatial Applications and Insights Across the Economy
Expanding the adoption of geospatial applications and insights is crucial for maximizing the benefits of location data. This initiative aims to ensure that businesses and organizations across various sectors can leverage geospatial information to make informed decisions, improve operational efficiency, and drive economic growth.
Build Confidence in the Future Geospatial Ecosystem
To maintain the UK’s status as a global leader in science and technology, building confidence in the geospatial ecosystem is essential. This involves creating a secure and reliable environment that fosters collaboration between the private and public sectors, driving innovation and attracting investment.
Implementation and Impact
The Geospatial Strategy 2030 builds upon previous achievements and ongoing initiatives. It includes the following key actions and commitments:
National Underground Asset Register (NUAR) Expansion
The strategy aims to fully operationalize the National Underground Asset Register across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland by the end of 2025. This register provides a standardized data-sharing platform for the location and condition of underground pipes and cables, streamlining infrastructure planning and maintenance processes.
Review of the Public Sector Geospatial Agreement (PSGA)
The Geospatial Commission will conduct a comprehensive review of the Public Sector Geospatial Agreement to ensure its continued effectiveness over the remaining seven years of the agreement. The PSGA outlines how Ordnance Survey delivers world-leading location data and expertise to the public sector in England, Scotland, and Wales.
Renewal and Modernization of Geospatial Contracts
Key multi-million-pound contracts that provide the public sector with access to high-quality geospatial data and services will be renewed and modernized. This ensures that the UK remains at the forefront of geospatial technologies and maintains its ability to drive innovation and support decision-making across various sectors.
The Enduring Value of Location-Based Insights
Sir Bernard Silverman, Chair of the Geospatial Commission, highlights the enduring value of location-based insights in tackling challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, energy security, and economic growth. By supporting the adoption of critical technologies and investing in research and development, the strategy positions the UK geospatial sector for sustained growth and global leadership.
Source: Gov[Dot]UK
