The location of 5,400 new homes in Gloucestershire’s Forest of Dean area may soon be determined using artificial intelligence. The district council has revisited its development plan in light of a significant increase in the local housing needs. The council initially focused on specific areas for the construction of 6,600 homes by 2041, but with the surge in demand, new strategic options such as the potential for a new garden town are being explored.
The revised plan now includes considerations for a new garden town between the A40 and A48 near Churcham, or a new settlement off junction 2 of the M50 near Redmarley. It has been proposed that computer software, including AI support, will aid in identifying suitable locations for the additional housing. The council aims to trial AI to analyze and compare the gathered public responses, in an attempt to expedite the decision-making process.
The potential use of AI has raised questions and concerns from councillors, particularly regarding the credibility and decision-making authority associated with the AI-generated information. Council leaders emphasized that while AI will be utilized in the analysis, the final decision will be made by a designated staff member, with the AI results being reviewed and compared against existing knowledge.
The unanimous vote by the council to review the local plan and explore alternative strategic options reflects the significance of utilizing AI technology in the decision-making process, to meet the escalating housing requirements within set timeframes.