The UK government is testing an experimental generative AI (genAI) tool designed to help local councils make faster planning decisions.

Called Extract, the tool would increase the availability and quality of planning data by converting poor scans of old PDF and paper documents into “machine-readable” and sharable data in around 40 seconds.

Many councils currently still use paper documents and scanned PDFs, which can slow down the planning process, resulting in backlogs, inefficiencies, and wasted resources.

The new genAI tool will turn old planning documents, such as blurry maps and handwritten notes, into clear, digital data saving planners in an estimated two hours.

The government said that by pulling key information from thousands of files, the tool helps cut delays, reduce errors in data, and speed up planning decisions which will free up planners’ time, allowing them to focus more on building homes.

Following the test phase, the tool could be made available to councils later this year.

The government added that the tool also has potential applications across the public sector because location-specific data is used to deliver services and inform government policy and decisions across departments.

Technology secretary Peter Kyle said that the UK’s planning system is currently held back by “outdated” paper documents and slow processes which makes it nearly impossible for councils to make informed decisions quickly.

“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,” he added. “Technology like this could be a vital step towards councils meeting targets to help build the 1.5 million new homes the country needs, all while updating and improving the planning system for the future.”

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