UK launches research hub to decarbonise transport networks

£10m national hub will provide expertise, innovative modelling and engagement to support net zero transport networks

Professor Phil Blythe CBE of Newcastle University, which will lead the hub

Professor Phil Blythe CBE of Newcastle University, which will lead the hub

Led by Newcastle University, Research Hub for Decarbonised Adaptable and Resilient Transport Infrastructures (DARe), will help to upgrade and decarbonise the UK’s complex and interconnected national, regional and local transport infrastructures and to adapt to the effects of climate change.

DARe has been awarded funding by the Department for Transport (£5 million), the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, part of UKRI, and UKRI’s Building a Green Future fund (£5 million).

Professor Phil Blythe CBE, Professor of Intelligent Transport Systems, and head of the Future Mobility Group, Newcastle University, said: "We are delighted to be awarded the hub, which will be the national focus for research into how we decarbonise and make resilient our transport infrastructure.  

“The hub will engage widely to bring together the leading academics from across the UK and their civic and industry partners so we can focus on understanding the underpinning science and engineering to enable us to tackle these real challenges, and provide the models that will help us understand the impact and find the most appropriate solutions.”

Transport is the largest contributor to UK domestic greenhouse gas emissions, but it is also the engine of economic growth.

To meet net zero emissions by 2050 and protect the economy, it is crucial that  ransport infrastructure evolves to meet the challenges of climate change, whether that is flooding or extreme heat.

DARe will identify pathways and solutions for delivering a resilient, net-zero transport system that works for people and communities. It will host world-leading researchers who will provide expertise, modelling and data tailored to each area and each transport challenge.  

Transport Secretary Mark Harper said: “The UK is cementing its position as a world-leader in net zero tech with this new investment into climate resilience. This Hub will be a centre of academic excellence, helping us keep our transport network resilient into the future.”

Professor Miles Padgett, Interim Executive Chair of the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, part of UKRI, said: “A well-functioning low carbon transport infrastructure is vital to sustain communities and economies.

“This investment in the climate resilient development of our transport system will keep the UK at the forefront of the green industrial revolution and accelerate the transition to a secure and prosperous green economy.”  

Whilst led by Newcastle University, the DARe hub also brings together the universities of Cambridge, Glasgow and Heriot-Watt as partner institutions.

Researchers will also launch an open-source platform, opening the data to policymakers, local authorities and the frontline of transport systems.