HM Land Registry recently signalled the start of its transformation towards a more open approach to data.
The Registry released its Annual Report and Accounts yesterday, outlining its priorities for its upcoming digital overhaul. This is the first yearly report and accounts they have published since the government announced that it would stay in the public sector. Aiming to create a quicker and more simple system for users, they will identify various locations which will be appropriate for homes by comprehensively registering land throughout England and Wales.
Gathering support for the plans was Graham Farrant. The Chief Executive and Chief Land Registrar stated: “To our many stakeholders, I would ask you to join, support and partner with us as we explore how through digital technology we can work together to make conveyancing quicker, cheaper and simpler for everyone”.
During the land registration process, the initial aim of the Registry will be to prioritise public sector land in order to give a clearer indication of possible sites suitable for housing development as well as other infrastructure needs.
In addition to improving registration, the overhaul will mean working alongside the private sector in order to test new digital registers and research as well as possibly looking into blockchain.
By shifting to become a more digitally data-driven organisation and making internal changes, HM Land Registry aims to adapt to the evolving needs of consumers, trying to make the conveyancing process cheaper and more straightforward.
The Registry also aims to open up more of its data sets externally, as well as across the government to provide support for financial security, tax collection, infrastructure development, national security and law enforcement.
Mr Farrant went on to highlight the vital part that the Registry currently plays in the market and how the new plans are set to enhance this.
“Alongside the key role we already play in the property market, our transformation will help support the UK in developing a vibrant and innovative digital economy. Our plans not only involve the digitisation of our existing services but we will explore how, through new digital technology, we can help to potentially release even more value from the Land Register”.
