AI tool could transform and digitalise planning process – Timmins

Planning applications could be made more cost-effective and fast-tracked through a digital tool, according to a Fine Gael TD.

Deputy Edward Timmins said a new AI-powered tool could be a “game changer” for Ireland’s planning system. A similar tool, recently unveiled in the UK using Google Deep Mind’s Gemini model, has already demonstrated significant cost and time savings.

“Test trials of the system in the UK, known as ‘Extract’ and developed with Google, show that planning records, including maps, can be digitalised in under three minutes, compared with one to two hours manually by a planning official. 

“Introducing a similar system to digitalise planning in Ireland would free up valuable time for planning staff, accelerate the delivery of thousands of homes, and deliver significant cost savings for the taxpayer.”

Deputy Timmins said Ireland must embrace innovative solutions to improve the planning system.

“A digital transformation of our planning process could potentially be a game changer for housing delivery and efficiency at council and national level. By scanning and processing planning documents using modern technology, we could dramatically speed up decision-making and reduce costs”, said Deputy Timmins.

He added, however, that before any AI tools are procured to be used by the state, comprehensive testing would need to be carried out to ensure the highest standards of accuracy, consistency and safety are upheld.

“Applicants, local authorities, state bodies and the public must be assured that all records are up-to-date, correct and transparent. Any use of AI to enhance efficiencies would need to be similarly guaranteed for reliability.

“After twenty years as a councillor on Wicklow County Council, I know the issues we face within the planning system. I believe this would strengthen efficiency and outputs, particularly as councils often face recruitment challenges and sometimes outsource work.

“This is about cost-savings and driving innovation across the planning system.

“I am writing to the Minister for Housing James Browne TD along with the Committee on Housing, Local Government and Heritage to explore how this technology could be used in our planning processes,” concluded Deputy Timmins.