London has witnessed two transformative shifts in urban mobility over the last decade: the 2012 Olympics and the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Both events posed unique challenges to Transport for London (TfL), requiring innovative solutions to ensure mobility and public safety. During the Olympics, TfL developed the Games Playbook, a GIS-based traffic management tool, which successfully supported 4.5 million daily Tube riders, achieving 90% journey punctuality despite record traffic. Building on this legacy, TfL adapted its GIS technology during the pandemic to prioritize active and sustainable transportation, focusing on creating space for walking, cycling, and social distancing.

With the Surface Playbook, TfL implemented citywide initiatives to expand walkways, create temporary cycling lanes, and restrict car traffic in specific areas. GIS-driven risk assessments identified high-priority zones based on factors like pedestrian density, transport hubs, and essential services. Integrated with onsite surveys and real-time dashboards, this data informed decisions about temporary and permanent changes to London’s streets. The project aligned with long-term goals of Mayor Sadiq Khan’s 2018 Transport Strategy, aiming for 80% of trips via sustainable modes by 2041.