Artificial intelligence
Councils are exploring and implementing artificial intelligence to enhance public services, improve efficiency, and address safeguarding concerns.
In October 2026, Barking and Dagenham's Health Scrutiny Committee heard that artificial intelligence is being implemented to support clinicians in local GP hubs, for tasks such as consultation transcripts. Councils are also exploring AI for efficiency in other services, with Richmond upon Thames set to trial AI for pothole detection in October 2025, and Croydon Council exploring its use for the 'Love Clean Streets' app in November 2025 to improve waste management.
Richmond upon Thames' safeguarding partnership identified technology-facilitated harm, including AI used to manipulate images, as a strategic priority in September 2026. In November 2025, Hammersmith and Fulham Council committed £3.2 million to upgrade its CCTV network with AI capabilities, including facial recognition, for public safety, with human oversight and an Ethics board review in place.
Key facts
- Barking and Dagenham's Health Scrutiny Committee heard in October 2026 that AI is being implemented to support clinicians in local GP hubs. Source
- Richmond upon Thames' safeguarding partnership identified technology-facilitated harm, including AI to manipulate images, as a strategic priority in September 2026. Source
- Hammersmith and Fulham Council is investing £3.2 million to upgrade its CCTV network with AI capabilities, as detailed in November 2025. Source
- Redbridge GPs are implementing AI to expedite chest X-ray results, potentially reducing waiting times from three weeks to three days, as reported in October 2025. Source
- Richmond upon Thames Council decided in October 2025 to trial AI for pothole detection to improve efficiency. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 22 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.