Dundee, known as Scotland’s, “City of Discovery,” through the 8th City Programme, has co-funded five cutting-edge smart city initiatives.
8th City Programme – Phase 1
Open Data
The Open Data project focused on developing an accessible open data platform, created in collaboration with Aberdeen, Inverness, Perth, and Stirling. Open Data officers actively engaged with the Dundee community, producing 43 data sets and an innovative service by the project’s completion in December 2019.
Public Safety / City Operations
Working alongside Perth and Angus, Dundee enhanced its public safety network to promote community security. This project, completed in February 2022, includes upgraded CCTV and video analytics. Data from these systems support city cent management and active travel initiatives, with 9 new data sets and an innovative service developed.
Smart Mobility
Dundee’s Smart Mobility efforts in Phase 1 emphasized ShareMORE, a Mobility as a Service (MaaS) solution, supported by the Dundee MILL (Mobility Innovation Living Lab) for testing mobility innovations. The project, finalized in March 2022, generated five innovative services, supporting Dundee’s transition to more efficient, sustainable transport options.
Smart Waste
The Smart Waste project implemented technologies like solar-powered compactors, fullness sensors, electric street sweepers, and route optimization software within the Street Scene framework. Completed in June 2019, it delivered three innovative services and six data sets, enhancing waste management in Dundee.
8th City Programme – Phase 2
Smart Mobility for LEZ
In Phase 2, Dundee expanded its EV charging infrastructure in preparation for the Low Emission Zone (LEZ) set for 2024. This project introduced Britain’s largest fully accessible EV charging hub on Clepington Road, launched in April 2023. Recognized for its inclusivity, this initiative received a nomination in the Best Practice in Diversity, Inclusivity, and Accessibility category at the National Transport Awards 2023. Phase 2 produced four innovative services and five data sets, strengthening Dundee’s commitment to sustainable urban mobility.
Dundee’s Open Data Hub is available here.
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LHEES, area-wide plans for improving building energy efficiency and decarbonising heat, are crucial for Scotland’s energy transition. These strategies provide a framework for improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions in buildings by 2045. Cities are implementing LHEES to identify and prioritise areas for energy improvements, ensuring a coordinated approach to decarbonisation.
Efforts to decarbonise urban areas are gaining momentum. Initiatives like the Low Carbon Infrastructure Transition Programme (LCITP) support projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Cities are developing net zero neighbourhoods, focusing on energy efficiency, sustainable transport, and green spaces. These neighbourhoods aim to create healthier, more sustainable urban environments.
Scotland’s commitment to renewable energy is evident in its infrastructure. The country is a leader in wind energy, with numerous onshore and offshore wind farms. Cities are increasingly integrating renewable energy sources into their grids, supporting Scotland’s ambitious climate targets.
Transport infrastructure in Scotland’s cities is robust and continually improving. Scotland’s road network spans approximately 35,400 miles (56,959 km), with major road networks like the M8 connecting Glasgow and Edinburgh facilitating efficient travel and commerce. Rail connectivity is equally vital, with cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow serving as central hubs in the UK’s national rail network. The Caledonian Sleeper service, the overnight sleeper train service also provides a convenient connection between London and many of Scotland’s cities.
The rise of digital services has increased demand for data centres. Scotland’s cool climate and renewable energy resources make it an attractive location for green data centres. These facilities use energy-efficient technologies and renewable energy sources to minimise their environmental impact. Cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow are exploring opportunities to develop such centres, supporting the digital economy while aligning with sustainability goals.
Scotland is making significant strides in digital connectivity. The rollout of 5G and full-fibre broadband is transforming cities into digital hubs. CityFibre’s Gigabit City Investment Programme is a key initiative, aiming to provide full-fibre infrastructure to cities up and down Scotland and the wider UK. This programme supports the Scottish Government’s goal of ensuring superfast broadband access for all premises by 2027. Stirling became the UK’s first completed Gigabit City in 2020.