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Artificial intelligence is increasingly moving from experimentation to real-world implementation across the public sector. For many UK local authorities, however, an important question remains: what does genuine AI readiness actually look like in practice? This question formed the focus of a recent episode of the Duco Digital podcast, where Darren Winter spoke with the GoLLM research team about our ongoing research exploring AI readiness across UK local authorities.
Duco digital training
Duco Digital works with organisations across the UK to support digital transformation through training, advisory services, and industry dialogue, and their podcast series brings together practitioners, researchers, and technology leaders to explore the practical realities of adopting emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.
During the conversation, we discussed findings from our research, including how councils are approaching AI adoption, the barriers they face, and the policy environment shaping these decisions.
The policy context: growing focus on AI
Artificial intelligence has become an increasing priority in the UK’s national policy agenda. Initiatives such as the AI Opportunities Action Plan, alongside investments in digital skills and innovation zones, signal growing ambition to support AI development.
However, translating national strategies into practical implementation within local authorities presents challenges. Councils operate under financial constraints while managing governance requirements and varying levels of digital maturity.
Our research contributes to this discussion by examining how prepared local authorities are to adopt AI in a structured and responsible way.
Key findings
A central insight from the research is that AI readiness varies significantly across local authorities.
Larger metropolitan councils often have greater access to technical expertise and digital infrastructure, while smaller or rural authorities may face tighter resource constraints. These differences mean that AI adoption strategies must reflect local contexts rather than follow a single national model.
The research also highlights opportunities for greater collaboration across councils. Shared services, knowledge exchange, and shared infrastructure could help authorities explore AI more efficiently while reducing duplication of effort.
A strategic crossroads
Many organisations are currently deciding how AI should fit within their broader digital transformation strategies.
Some councils are considering embedding AI into existing systems and workflows, while others are experimenting with smaller pilot initiatives. These choices will influence how effectively AI can support long-term operations and decision-making.
International perspectives
The podcast also explored how the UK compares internationally.
European approaches tend to emphasise regulatory frameworks and compliance, particularly through the EU’s AI regulations. The UK has taken a somewhat different route, focusing more on encouraging innovation while guiding organisations to manage risks responsibly.
Meanwhile, countries such as the United States have invested heavily in AI development, further shaping the evolving global landscape.
Listen to the full podcast
If you would like to hear the full conversation, the podcast episode is available here:
AI adoption remains in an early stage
Although interest in AI is growing, adoption within local government remains at an early stage. Many councils are still exploring how the technology could support operations and public services through pilot projects and experimentation.
Understanding existing capabilities and gaps is therefore essential. Assessing organisational readiness allows councils to prepare for future adoption while avoiding rushed implementation.
Governance as a foundation for AI
The discussion also emphasised the importance of strong governance frameworks.
AI adoption requires organisations to address several critical issues, including:
- Risk management
- Cybersecurity
- Transparency and employee trust
- Quality assurance
- Skills development and training
Without clear governance structures, organisations may struggle to manage the risks associated with AI systems.
A strategic crossroads
Many organisations are currently deciding how AI should fit within their broader digital transformation strategies.
Some councils are considering embedding AI into existing systems and workflows, while others are experimenting with smaller pilot initiatives. These choices will influence how effectively AI can support long-term operations and decision-making.
International perspectives
The podcast also explored how the UK compares internationally.
European approaches tend to emphasise regulatory frameworks and compliance, particularly through the EU’s AI regulations. The UK has taken a somewhat different route, focusing more on encouraging innovation while guiding organisations to manage risks responsibly.
Meanwhile, countries such as the United States have invested heavily in AI development, further shaping the evolving global landscape.
Listen to the full podcast
If you would like to hear the full conversation, the podcast episode is available here: