Barnsley has been named by the government as the UK’s first ‘Tech Town’, a new designation that will see a more deliberate effort made to support its rollout of AI.
The South Yorkshire town will serve as a blueprint for the widespread rollout of AI across UK public services, with its schools, NHS facilities and more set to receive targeted integration of the technology.
Ministers will work with local business leaders and public sector workers to build local talent, run training schemes and create AI-oriented jobs in hopes of creating a replicable formula to deliver the government’s AI Opportunities Action plan pledges.
“One of the key missions in our Inclusive Economic Growth Strategy is for Barnsley to become the UK’s leading digital town,” said Barnsley Council Leader Sir Stephen Houghton.
“We’re looking forward to working with colleagues from DSIT, our residents and our partners to shape the programme to create safer, smarter public services and new opportunities for everyone to thrive in the emerging and fast-paced AI landscape, blazing a trail for the rest of the country to follow.”
The government also hopes to convene major tech companies in the town to support these ambitions. Leaders from Microsoft and Cisco have already agreed to a joint visit to Barnsley with Tech Secretary Liz Kendall.
“If we are going to get AI to work for Britain, we need Britons and British public services that can work with AI,” said Kendall.
“That is why Barnsley’s ambitions are crucial, because if we can show that AI helps young people learn, supports local businesses to be more productive, and improves public services, then we can show what’s possible for the whole country.”