The Geospatial Commission has officially announced an ambitious plan to map the UK from the bottom up. The goal is to combine existing data on pipes and cables into a single Underground Assets Register.
The government has already launched pilot projects in London and the North East. These pilots will test if a unified map works in the real world.
The Danger of Digging Blind
Currently, there is no single map for the UK’s service network. Different utility companies keep their own records. One map might show gas pipes, while another shows electricity cables.
This lack of shared data creates real danger. Minister for Implementation, Oliver Dowden, visited Sunderland to see the mapping work in progress. He was clear about the risks involved.
He stated that when workers strike pipes and cables, it risks lives. It also costs money and causes havoc for residents and road users. He believes this investment in a cutting-edge map is a way the government is working smarter to make a difference in people’s everyday lives.
Pilot Projects in Action
Work is already underway to fix this problem. Prototypes in Sunderland and London now allow workers to view underground assets on mobile phones or laptops before they start digging.
The project involves major collaboration:
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North East: Led by Ordnance Survey. They are working with Northumbrian Water, Northern Gas Networks, Northern Powergrid, and Openreach.
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London: Led by the Greater London Authority. They are coordinating with infrastructure providers and local councils.
A Long-Term Ambition
Ordnance Survey has wanted to create this map for a long time. David Henderson, the managing director of Ordnance Survey Great Britain, explained the significance of the move.
He noted that they have spent the last year working with Northumbrian Water and a consortium of utility companies. Their goal was to explore how accurate geospatial data could improve maintenance and help with new construction projects.
Henderson added that this investment will ultimately enable the utility industry to share data more efficiently. This will reduce operational costs, minimize disruption, and speed up site works.
