Transport for London (TfL) has launched another round of RoadLab, its innovation competition funded by lane rental charges to develop new ways of tackling issues caused by roadworks.
RoadLab 2.0 will focus on 'improving portable traffic signals to reduce congestion' and looking at ways to use walking and cycling data to better plan roadworks.
Applications are open to everybody, and the deadline for applying is midday on Friday 23 December 2022.
Successful bids will receive up to £20,000 to enter a 12-week trial phase, with access to TfL expertise to help them develop their products on London’s roads.
Products that are shown to work effectively may then be provided further funding in future to help make the capital’s roads safer and more efficient for everyone.
Rikesh Shah, TfL’s head of open innovation, said: 'We’ve proven through FreightLab and RoadLab 1.0 that working openly in partnership with innovators brings in new ideas at scale, and I’m keen we harness the ideas, skills and energy of the market to help us make London’s roads safer and more accessible for sustainable travel.
'I’d encourage anybody with a great idea to apply to RoadLab 2.0 and take part in our latest innovation challenge.'
The first RoadLab was launched in 2019, and innovations from the scheme are still being used including simulation technology to model roadworks and artificial intelligence software that uses anonymised social media data to detect emerging disruptions.
TfL’s last innovation challenge, FreightLab, has finished most of its trials, with some trials chosen to be extended and others which have entered into commercial agreements with FreightLab Partners.
TfL highlighted that roadworks carried out for construction and utilities work are responsible for 80% of bus delays, as well as causing greater vehicle emissions.
