The UK government has awarded 1.2 million GBP to eight projects aimed at improving transport in rural communities.
Each project has received 150,000 GBP under the Rural Transport Accelerator Fund. The funding will support small businesses developing innovative technologies to better meet rural mobility needs.
It is hoped that this investment will strengthen local economies, increase wellbeing, and provide greener transport options.
Future of Roads Minister, Lilian Greenwood, said:People who live in rural areas have unique needs when it comes to transport and we’re always looking for ways to improve connections across the country.
Through our funding, these projects will shake up the way rural transport is delivered, using the latest innovations to help residents see their friends and family, do their weekly food shop or attend hospital appointments.
The selected projects address specific rural travel needs, including accessible hospital transport, on-demand services, and sustainable infrastructure.
Winning innovations include:
You.Smart.Thing: A digital tool trialled in Warwickshire to facilitate shared and demand-responsive transport for people without car access.
UrbanTide: A mapping system trialled in Fife to analyse patient journeys to rural hospitals, aiding providers in improving access to healthcare.
Alchera Technologies: Data-driven modelling to assist Norfolk County Council with decision-making on rural mobility.
Civil Water Management: Recycled car tyres used in drainage systems to reduce flooding on rural cycling routes, tested by Milton Keynes County Council.
The funding aligns with the UK’s drive to address rural mobility challenges. The Connected Places Catapult, the UK’s transport innovation accelerator, is delivering the programme.
Connected Places Catapult’s Chief Executive Officer, Erika Lewis, said:I am delighted to welcome 8 exciting companies onto the Rural Transport Accelerator.
Their innovations and technologies promise to make a real impact for people living in rural areas, and I look forward to following their progress through the programme over the coming months.
