UK government harnesses Gemini to support faster planning decisions
a year ago
- #AI
- #Planning
- #UK Government
- The UK government has developed Extract, an AI-powered system using Google's Gemini model to speed up planning application processes.
- Extract converts complex, paper-based planning documents into digital structured data in just 40 seconds, reducing manual workload.
- The system is being tested in four councils and will be available nationwide by Spring 2026.
- Gemini's multimodal reasoning capabilities enable Extract to process text, handwritten notes, and poor-quality images, including maps.
- Extract uses tools like OpenCV and Ordnance Survey for polygon extraction and georeferencing to modernize historical maps.
- The project showcases AI's potential to transform public services, with possible applications in health, education, and policing.
- Google Cloud will support Extract's scaling, providing secure hosting and AI engineering expertise.