The UK’s Department for Transport is set to work with local authorities and the Connected and Automated Vehicle (CAV) sector to introduce new legislation around traffic regulation orders (TROs).

The new legislation is expected to open up data on proposed changes to the UK’s road network.

Information about the predicted 50,000 road closures each year will become available, enabling potential traffic jams to be highlighted up to months in advance.

Once the new legislation is in place, this data will soon be provided to technology firms.

Companies will get the opportunity to develop and improve navigational apps powered by artificial intelligence (AI).

This technology will alert drivers up to months in advance regarding planned disruptions to their routes, as well as providing alternative directions.

UK Future of Transport minister George Freeman said: “As a road user, there is nothing more frustrating than discovering roadworks and getting stuck in traffic jams.

“Today’s announcement will help open up data, reducing congestion, pollution and frustration for road users.”

The latest development is part of the government’s strategy to make travelling safer, cleaner, greener and easier.

Set to support the government’s Future of Mobility Grand Challenge programme, the review will consider whether current law will be able to optimise the potential of future technologies.

In a press statement, the UK Government said: “Evidence suggests that opening up TRO data could also help with route planning systems for self-driving vehicles, cementing the UK’s position as a world leader in developing self-driving vehicle technology.”