The government will launch an Artificial Intelligence tool in collaboration with Google to speed up the planning system.
The AI tool will be called ‘Extract’ and can be used by planning officers and local councils to scan hundreds of files in seconds.
Extract should save thousands of hours spent by planning officers, freeing up their time to focus on decision-making
Prime Minister Keir Starmer unveiled the tool at London Tech Week, while it should be rolled out nationally by Spring 2026
He said: “For too long, our outdated planning system has held back our country— slowing down the development of vital infrastructure and making it harder to get the homes we need built.
“This government is working hand in hand with business to change that. With Extract, we’re harnessing the power of AI to help planning officers cut red tape, speed up decisions, and unlock the new homes for hard-working people as part of our Plan for Change.”
Extract is being trialled cross Hillingdon, Nuneaton & Bedworth, and Exeter councils.
So far it has successfully digitised planning records, including maps, in just three minutes, down from the two hours.
Angela Rayner, deputy prime minister and housing secretary, said: “By using cutting-edge technology like Extract we can fix the broken planning system, cut delays, save money, and also reduce burdens on councils to help pave the way for the biggest building boom in a generation.”