The UK government is trialling an experimental artificial intelligence tool named Extract to accelerate the planning process and support its target of constructing 1.5 million new homes. Developed by the government’s Incubator for AI (i.AI) in collaboration with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Extract is designed to convert poor-quality scans, PDFs, and handwritten notes into machine-readable, shareable data in seconds. Early tests show Extract can complete tasks in 40 seconds that currently take planners 1–2 hours manually.
By automating document digitisation, Extract aims to reduce errors, minimise delays, and free up planning officers’ time. This is crucial, as many councils still rely on outdated paper-based systems that contribute to significant backlogs.
Supporting Housing Targets
The Extract tool plays a vital role in the broader strategy to meet the government’s goal of delivering 1.5 million new homes. Technology Secretary Peter Kyle stated that AI could tackle “sluggish” planning processes, helping councils make faster and smarter decisions. “With Extract, councils will have access to better quality data so they can move more quickly on planning decisions and get on with driving growth,” Kyle emphasised.
Economic Implications
The Office for Budget Responsibility forecasts that streamlining planning with AI could boost the UK economy by 0.2% by 2029 and over 0.4% by 2035. This projection highlights how modernising local authority systems can contribute to long-term economic growth.
Looking Ahead
Extract remains in the testing phase but is expected to be rolled out to councils later this year. If successful, it could serve as a blueprint for AI integration across other areas of public service, demonstrating the potential for digital tools to enhance efficiency and support national development objectives.
Related Market Overview
Leading companies in AI development reflect the rising importance of such technologies:
- Alphabet Inc. (GOOGL): €149 per share, market cap approximately €1.76 trillion
- Microsoft Corporation (MSFT): €363 per share, market cap approximately €2.92 trillion
- NVIDIA Corp (NVDA): €101 per share
These players are instrumental in powering AI innovations reshaping sectors like urban planning and public administration.
