A Transformational Moment for NLIS

Just a few weeks after completing our successful proof of concept and market-wide engagement, we received the news we had been hoping for: our application to the DSIT Regulators’ Pioneer Fund had been approved. The timing could not have been better! We knew our ambition: to deliver something truly transformative for the Official Searches market. An independent, regulated platform designed for the good of the whole market, was about to move from concept to reality. 

The past three months have become one of the most significant periods of progress in the history of Land Data and the National Land Information Service. What began as a technical proof of concept has become a funded, sector-supported transformation programme, and momentum continues to build. 

Building the Right Team 

Success starts with good people. In this first phase, we have: 

• Formalised our partnership with Data Clan, who will build the Next Generation NLIS platform. Their expertise in digital innovation will underpin the technical development, led by Chris Lees, Founder of Data Clan, Government advisor and globally recognised data standards expert. 

• Appointed a technical architect to scrutinise, refine, and advise on the platform architecture. 

• Welcomed Steph Holmes as our Business Change Manager, who is already shaping a smooth and well-supported transition for data providers and stakeholders. 

• Established a fractionalised consultant model, ensuring we access senior skills precisely when needed, ensuring agility and value for money. 

  
  

Together with our Board—including representatives from GeoPlace and the LGA, plus insight from Dan Hughes (Alpha Property Insight) and our in-house communications, design and training capability, this multi-disciplinary team gives us specialist expertise while keeping delivery focused and efficient. 

Creating the Market Data Model 

At the heart of the Next Generation NLIS is the Market Data Model: a blueprint that identifies the data the platform needs, maps each point to an authoritative standard, and provides a single, structured view of Official Search data. 

This is a first for the home buying and selling sector. 

The data model lays a foundation for: 

•  Consistency and interoperability 

•  Reduced friction in data exchange 

•  A strong foundation for future innovation 

  
  

Launching the Early Adopter Programme 

We have now opened our Early Adopter Programme to data custodians, including local authorities; IT software suppliers and search providers. Early Adopters gain: 

• Early access to technical specifications 

• The chance to help shape the platform through hands-on collaboration 

• A head start in offering enhanced services to their customers 

• Access to our technical expertise and support  

  
  

Securing Market-Wide Support 

In October, we launched our Statement of Support, and we now have 17 leading organisations signed up. The Statement recognises the growing need for standardised property data from Official sources and supports Land Data’s commitment to creating an independent, regulated, market-led platform that incorporates new data standards and the UPRN. 

Signatories include: 

GeoPlace, OPDA, Mining Remediation Authority, Drainage and Water Searches Network, Local Government Association, Local Land Charges Institute, The Property Ombudsman, Landmark Information Group, The Conveyancing Association, Conveyancing Information Executive, SearchFlow, OnPoint Data, and more. 

Read and sign the Statement of Support here. 

Refreshing the NLIS Brand 

A new era deserves a refreshed identity. After consulting with local authorities and industry partners, we have chosen to retain the trusted NLIS name while adding Next Generation to reflect the direction and ambition of this programme. We have also updated the NLIS logo and colour palette to signal this evolution. 

Strengthening Governance and Transparency 

We are now firmly into the rhythm of reporting against KPIs, capturing early outcomes and sharing learnings with the wider home buying and selling ecosystem. Transparency and accountability sit at the heart of this programme, and we will continue to update stakeholders through LinkedIn and our online blog series. 

What’s Next? 

 The months ahead will focus on: 

• Developing the Next Generation NLIS platform, supported by Early Adopter IT providers, data custodians, search providers and PropTech partners 

• Ensuring continued alignment with the OPDA smart property data trust framework 

• Providing onboarding support for data custodians and search intermediaries 

• Creating a regulatory framework designed to improve transparency, efficiency and consumer trust without introducing unnecessary burdens 

• Preparing for a phased migration, ahead of full transition in 2027 

  
  

If you would like to learn more about the creation of the Next Generation NLIS or have any questions, please contact info@land-data.org.uk 

Photo by Ivan Bandura on Unsplash