UK Government Deploys DeepMind-Backed AI to Cut Council Planning Times in Half

The UK government is using artificial intelligence to tackle one of planning's oldest frustrations: slow decisions. Two new AI tools are now available to local councils, targeting a 50% reduction in the time it takes to process householder planning applications.

Two Tools, One Goal

The flagship tool is Augmented Planning Decisions (APD), built alongside Google DeepMind, Google Cloud, UK AI firm Faculty, and local planning authorities. APD triages applications, summarises key information, and provides planning officers with an initial assessment — cutting average processing time from eight weeks to four. Three councils are currently in early-stage trials: Barnet, Camden, and Dorset.

The second tool, Extract, is already available to all councils in England after trials with 20 local planning authorities. It converts historic planning documents and handwritten maps into searchable digital data within minutes.

Key Takeaways

• Householder applications account for nearly 70% of all UK planning applications
• APD is designed to free officer capacity for complex cases, including new housing developments
• If the pilot succeeds, nationwide rollout is targeted for 2027
• Every AI-generated assessment is reviewed and approved by a qualified planning officer before any decision is issued

Read the full article on Housing Today