€2.0 billion

on Transport

to Metrolink

Public Transport Security

While the last few years have seen significant progress on investment in safety measures, antisocial behaviour remains a serious issue, and it is those who regularly use and work within our public transport network who are most directly impacted by any safety or security incidents on the network. In the Programme for Government 2025, there is a commitment to create a Transport Security Force under the National Transport Authority, which would operate and have similar powers to the Airport Police and Customs Officers.

While there has been a significant increase in investment in safety measures on public transport in recent years, the establishment of the Transport Security Force will play a central role in helping to tackle this important issue.

International Transport Trends

Sustainability

Autonomous Transportation

The global transport sector is experiencing a decisive shift toward sustainability, driven by the need to cut emissions, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and create more resilient mobility systems. Countries are expanding investment in active travel infrastructure, accelerating the electrification of land transport, as well as redesigning networks to support cleaner and more efficient movement of people and goods.

Autonomous vehicles (AVs) are expected to move beyond experimental phases into practical application over the coming years. Urban areas are also seeing pilot programs for autonomous public transportation such as robotaxis in the US, driverless buses in Singapore and shuttle services in Europe.

Data Harmonisation and Publication

Data harmonisation and the publication of transport data to easily accessible online data portals, is gaining traction. This involves transforming disparate data into consistent, standardised formats to ensure interoperability and utility for various stakeholders. Key to this process is adherence to standardised transport data formats, such as GTFS (General Transit Feed Specification) and NeTEx (European standard for exchanging public transport data). Emerging EU initiatives such as the updated Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) Directive and related regulations, which are aiming to create a Common European Mobility Data Space (EMDS) for seamless, smart, and sustainable mobility will continue to be supported and facilitated where practical.

Labour Shortages

The transport industry is experiencing persistent labour shortages, particularly for drivers and logistics personnel. This is encouraging the drive towards increased automation and the development of new technologies to streamline operations.

Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Supporting Infrastructure

Electric vehicles are becoming the cornerstone of a transportation revolution. By the end of 2025, global EV sales are projected to exceed 20 million units annually, driven by government policies and growing environmental awareness. Key advancements in battery technology are reducing costs and improving energy density, while countries like the United States, China, and European Union nations are investing billions in EV charging infrastructure.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Mobility

AI is increasingly being used in the transport sector. For example, AI systems that optimise public transport schedules are being piloted in cities like Amsterdam and Singapore. These systems use real-time demand, weather and traffic data to improve efficiency and reduce emissions.

Figure from page 16