Digital Task Force for Planning has signed an agreement with Ordnance Survey (OS) to collaborate on digital planning innovation and promote transformative changes for the benefit of the public.

This collaboration will promote the importance of researching, developing and using geospatial data to modernise mainstream planning practices in order to support the Government’s planning reforms and deliver zero-carbon, and other ambitious economic and social goals committed by the government.

OS and Digital Task Force for Planning are focused on transforming the spatial planning process through digital technology and trusted data that will empower planners to prioritise communities and promote multifunctional land use in both urban and rural areas. From where to develop new towns and renewable energy sources, to mapping out existing assets from schools, hospitals, to the local road and rail network. OS data, such as OS NGD Address, Buildings and Land themes will be critical in supporting economic growth and combining valuable insight and joint expertise from both organisations will help to ensure stability, investment and reform that results in more sustainable, and healthy communities.

Dr Wei Yang, CEO of Digital Task Force for Planning, said:

“We are delighted to join forces with Ordnance Survey to integrate digital planning with geospatial innovation for the lasting benefit of society. Digitally enabled spatial planning can transform how we address the UK’s needs for housing, infrastructure, and resources while protecting natural capital and improving public health. It will enhance planning engagement, improve efficiency, and leverage data, science, and innovation for intelligent, evidence-based decisions, fostering a more sustainable future for all.”

Nick Bolton, Chief Executive Officer of OS, said: 

“Accurate and detailed location data enables planners and decision makers to visualise the bigger picture and consider what can and should happen where. By combining forces, we’re excited to take this collaboration forward with the common goal of integrating data, science and innovation. This will improve the planning process and establish long-term, sustainable infrastructure for social and economic development.” 

The collaboration aims to support the planning reform to improve efficiency and deliver better outcomes, using accurate data and insights from communities and other key stakeholders.

OS has been providing accurate location data and insights for governments, businesses, and consumers for more than 230 years. Last year, the organisation announced its most significant digital transformation milestone in over a decade, providing faster and easier access to location data for customers across the public and private sectors.

The Digital Task Force for Planning is devoted to digital planning with the ambition to promote digital integration and advancement in spatial planning to tackle the grand challenges in the 21st century. The Task Force was established in February 2021 and was the first social enterprise supported by the Geovation Accelerator Programme, which is backed by OS and HM Land Registry to support and enable early-stage startups to bring their ideas to life.