It has now been over three months since the Labour Government published their own version of the National Planning Policy Framework. The aim? To promote the delivery of 1.5 million homes by the end of this parliamentary term.
We have heard this story before, but history has demonstrated that this ambition has never really been backed up by the planning policy framework for delivery. However, the latest series of planning reforms are different and, at the very least, are opening pathways to increasing the delivery of much needed homes when compared to previous iterations of the NPPF.
Political will and planning reform are no doubt important, but attention will inevitably be focussed on the performance of Local Planning Authorities, the challenges they face, and their ability to meet such an ambitious demand.
Anyone who, like me, has worked for a Local Planning Authority is all too aware of the challenges. Recent reforms, together with high house prices leading to people who would rather extend their homes than move, have led to a substantial increase in both major, minor and householder applications, intensifying the workload of planning departments.
Many of these departments are already grappling with limited resources and staffing shortages, leading to delays in application processing and determination. NIMBYism and local political agendas can also hold up very valuable applications being determined and, ultimately, homes being delivered. These problems are not new and have been well documented through various media.
Can AI help streamline the planning system?
So, here is the million-pound question, how can we streamline the planning system to deliver the housing England, and the wider UK desperately needs?
The most common response to this question would be to look at collaboration and positive engagement. Effective dialogue between developers, LPAs, and communities is essential. It enhances stakeholder engagement, facilitates faster decision-making, and minimises conflicts and legal challenges.
However, in recent years, another character has entered the chat. Step forward, Artificial Intelligence, AI.
AI is booming and rapidly transforming industries worldwide. With an increasing demand for efficiency, transparency, and sustainability in the built environment, AI has the potential to revolutionise how planning applications are processed, policy is developed, and public engagement is conducted.
AI is already entering the planning system
In fact, the use of AI in the UK planning system is already being implemented, albeit at a very introductory level. So much so that, in September 2024, the Planning Inspectorate actively published guidance recognising the benefits of AI and that it “can be used to support our work and that this can be done positively when transparency is used.”
Moreover, the MHCLG Digital Planning Programme is on a mission to “modernise the planning system and make it fit for the 21st century, replacing outdated paper-based systems with modern data-driven solutions.”
In December 2024, the MHCLG reported that the use of modern software in trials saved up to 36% of time spent processing planning applications, and an overall 85% reduction in planning officer time, resources, and costs to summarise and report on public consultation feedback. These statistics demonstrate AI has a place in the industry.
Where AI could support planning
I must confess I am no expert in AI, but it appears to have the potential to offer so much more when we look to streamline how planning applications are developed, processed, and assessed.
AI can take a leading role in validating planning applications, saving administration work. It can enhance our use of Geographic Information Systems to bolster spatial analysis. It can be used to promote better public engagement when preparing Local Plans or consulting on planning applications.
The list of potentials is lengthy. As planning professionals, we need to keep up and embrace its functions. With the right knowledge, AI can and should play a transformative role in shaping a more responsive planning system for the UK.
Why caution is still needed
However, as with any form of technology, an element of caution is needed. AI ‘hallucinations’ are not infrequent. An overreliance can, in an industry subject to frequent legal challenges, leave us vulnerable.
My attention is drawn to a case in 2023, see Mata v Avianca 22-cv-1461(PKC), where a US Lawyer cited fake case law based on the outputs made by generative AI. Therefore, whilst, in my view, we must embrace AI, it is even more important that we fully know its limitations.
Also, while AI can enhance efficiency, planners clearly remain essential in interpreting and applying nuanced policy issues. AI can assist, but it cannot replace the expertise, judgment, and critical thinking that planning professionals bring to the table.
The future role of AI in planning
The future use of AI in the UK planning system is, in my view, inevitable. The opportunities to enhance efficiency, decision-making, and public participation cannot be ignored and pushed aside by sceptics.
However, its implementation must be carefully managed to ensure AI complements, rather than replaces, planning expertise. In a system driven by policy interpretation, political sensitivities, and community engagement, the skill of planning professionals will be needed more than ever to guide the process, navigate complexities, and ensure the best outcomes for our built environment.
Nevertheless, with the right policies and safeguards in place, AI could play a transformative role in shaping a more responsive and sustainable planning system.
