Unlocking brownfield project delays by leveraging on the nexus of digital technologies: A review

This research underscores the pivotal role of digital technology in addressing the obstacles and time delays that can hinder brownfield rehabilitation projects. Brownfield sites, often hampered by pollution, regulatory intricacies, and diverse socioeconomic challenges, necessitate innovative strategies for successful restoration. The research draws on evidence from current literature to identify the main barriers to brownfield project timescales, which include significant upfront expenses, intricate integration processes, data management difficulties, and hurdles related to regulatory compliance. This study explores the potential of new digital technologies, such as Laser-Scan Technology, 7-Dimensional (7D) Building Information Modelling (BIM), and blockchain, to provide effective solutions. These technologies can potentially optimise project management, facilitate stakeholder cooperation, increase data integrity, and ensure privacy and compliance. However, the study strongly advocates for a multidisciplinary approach that includes the expertise and involvement of urban planners, environmental engineers, policymakers, and academic researchers. This collaboration, in addition to digital technologies and legislative change, is crucial to fully utilise the potential of brownfield sites. This text contributes to discussing urban regeneration, sustainability, and digital innovation. It presents a framework for using digital technology to address challenges in rehabilitation, making brownfield projects more efficient, transparent, and successful.