Skip to main content

Smart Cambridge set to speed up ‘smart’ solutions for the region

UK city Cambridge is aiming to be at the centre of a leading ‘smart city region’ with the Smart Cambridge programme, which is being scaled up to explore how the latest data and digital technology can be used to transform the way people live, work and travel in the region, and beyond. The programme has recently been allocated US$1.9 million (£1.6million) by Greater Cambridge City Deal over the next three years, as part of its investment plans to improve the transport infrastructure and promote economic g
March 22, 2017 Read time: 2 mins
UK city Cambridge is aiming to be at the centre of a leading ‘smart city region’  with the Smart Cambridge programme, which is being scaled up to explore how the latest data and digital technology can be used to transform the way people live, work and travel in the region, and beyond.

The programme has recently been allocated US$1.9 million (£1.6million) by Greater Cambridge City Deal over the next three years, as part of its investment plans to improve the transport infrastructure and promote economic growth in and around Cambridge.

Smart Cambridge has launched the first phase of the Intelligent City Platform (iCP) it has developed with the University of Cambridge, taking real-time data from an array of sensors across the city to support myriad smart solutions.

A new LoRa (low power long range) network has also been set up with the University to transfer data flowing from the sensors to the data hub, so that is can be analysed and visualised to plan smart solutions, including making transport systems more reliable and easier to use. The platform collates ‘real-time’ data, which will allow citizens, third party developers and commercial partners to ‘test bed’ innovative applications including the new Cambridge mobile travel app, which will be available to download this summer.

The new MotionMap mobile travel app will use real-time data to more accurately predict bus times, to help improve people’s journeys and encourage them to use more sustainable methods of transport. The app is being developed by local tech company Building Intellect Ltd and will be launched this summer as part of a series of data-sharing events to involve residents and businesses in developing smart solutions for the city.

Tech-based small and medium sized businesses in Cambridge are also being challenged to drive forward Internet of Things (IoT) innovation during 2017 to help find real world solutions to key city challenges through the IoTUKBoost programme.

The next phase of the Smart Cambridge programme will build upon the studies already underway to investigate intelligent mobility including integrated ticketing and online payments, trialling driverless vehicles and the feasibility of an AVRT (advanced very rapid transit system) for Cambridge and surrounding areas.

Related Content

  • June 13, 2018
    Robin Chase interview: Heaven and hell
    A shared vision - or even much of a conversation at all - about what a better mobility balance looks like has been lacking…until now. Andrew Stone speaks to Zipcar founder Robin Chase about fairness – and the importance of not demonising cars
  • January 30, 2012
    Virtual traffic management centres, a new direction in traffic monitoring
    David Crawford picks up a new direction trend in traffic monitoring The surprise winner in the Traffic Management Centre (TMC) category of the recently-announced 2011 OSMOSE (Open Source for MObile and SustainablE city) Awards for European innovations in urban transport, is the Danish city of Aalborg - which doesn't have a TMC. Alternatively, one might consider its 'virtual' TMC as a signpost for the future in medium-sized cities.
  • February 1, 2021
    Crises demand digital ITS response
    Digital transformation of transport hubs will be crucial in tackling present and future challenges, and Huawei’s current Shenzhen project highlights what can be achieved
  • June 16, 2017
    Mobike to launch in Greater Manchester
    Smart bike-share provider Mobike is to launch its popular bike-sharing service in Manchester and Salford, UK, where it will go live on 29 June. By simply downloading the Mobike app, finding a nearby Mobike and scanning its QR code, users will be able to pick up and ride bikes around the city.