Introducing NUAR the National Underground Asset Register with expert Holger Kesser

A game-changer for avoiding buried utilities and much more, introducing NUAR, the National Underground Asset Register.

 At Highways UK, Peter Haddock caught up with NUAR expert Holger Kessler of AtkinsRealis for an in-depth look at how it will transform the industry.

Holger: “Simply put, NUAR is a National digital map that consolidates all buried infrastructure, including electricity, water, gas, drainage, internet cables, district heating networks, and more.

 “It’s secure, interactive, and real-time, aiming to make excavation safer, more efficient, and less disruptive.

“With its creation, we finally have a centralised system that will continuously be updated to alert workers about underground assets before they dig, and it will ultimately help to save lives, time, and resources.”

“What NUAR won’t do is replace the need to continue to follow the proper procedures of scanning before you dig, and of course, it will rely on the quality of the data entered into it, which will continue to improve and develop over time.

“For example, workers onsite will be able to contribute to improving the map by uploading photos or reporting discrepancies through NUAR’s observation layer. And surveyors/engineers will be able to upload 3D models as they create them, improving the data quality.”

When it comes to accessing NUAR, Holger added: “We are currently in the initial launch phase where NUAR is transitioning from development to a public beta, which will be managed by Ordnance Survey, by spring 2025. It will then scale to thousands of users daily, including utilities, local authorities, and contractors.

“Over time it will also lead to more collaborative planning of works and greater efficiencies by optimising resources. Ultimately NUAR will grow to become a key resource for anyone wanting to dig a hole in the ground.”

Here are some simple steps to using and supporting NUAR 

• If you’re in the industry, contact your utility administrator, who will be able to grant access to NUAR for your team.
• Engage with the Geospatial Commission link to its blog below or email geospatialcommission@dsit.gov.uk 

https://geospatialcommission.blog.gov...

• Start using NUAR by uploading observations and verifying data, and remember to promote its use across your projects.