The government has launched the next phase in the building of a digital map of underground pipes and cables, with ministers describing the move as step closer to revolutionising construction and development in the UK.

The National Underground Asset Register (NUAR), is now entering the build phase of the project. Cabinet office minister Lord True CBE, and Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen visited industry representatives and asset owners in Darlington for the launch to discuss the current challenges that NUAR will help address.

Over four million holes are dug in the UK each year, many in the wrong place. The economic cost of accidental utility damage is around £2.4bn each year. Unforeseen ground conditions are a major obstacle to all construction and housing projects, especially on previously developed land.

Once operational, NUAR is expected to deliver around £350m per year in benefits by avoiding accidental asset strikes, improving the efficiency of works and better data sharing.

Ministers say the new digital map of underground pipes and cables will help improve efficiencies in construction and development, reduce disruption and improve workers’ safety. Fast access to this data will save utilities companies and local authorities time and money, and reduce the disruption caused in trying to fix leaks and put in new infrastructure.

Lord True, minister of state at the cabinet office, said: “I am delighted to launch the build phase of the UK’s new National Underground Asset Register. This new digital map of the UK’s underground utilities assets demonstrates our commitment to putting innovation at the forefront of the UK’s economic recovery and ambition to Build Back Better.

“The digital map will be built in partnership between industry and government over the next three years, starting in the north-east of England, Wales and London. The platform will enable critical and local services, such as gas, water, electricity and telecommunications, to be efficiently maintained and delivered to homes and businesses via the web of cables, pipes and ducts currently beneath our streets.

“As the UK government continues to work with local partners in the north-east of England on a number of projects, it further demonstrates the integral role the region is playing in utilising the expertise available in all corners of the UK and building on the nation’s levelling up agenda.”

Nigel Clifford, deputy chair of the Geospatial Commission, said: “Unlocking value from geospatial data is the heart of the UK’s Geospatial Strategy. Our National Underground Asset Register will be a momentous step towards providing the UK with a shared national data asset of significant value. I am proud of the collaboration with industry that we have so far established as part of our preparatory work and look forward to it continuing.”

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen said: “I am absolutely delighted that this innovative new map of what lies beneath our feet is being launched and rolled out in Teesside. This new service will mean less mistakes are made when digging holes and less disruption to local people. Across Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool we’re making huge strides; we are transforming northern Europe’s biggest brownfield at Teesworks creating thousands of jobs and transforming our economy to a greener future, and this new map will be incredibly helpful.”