Kyle to lay out plans to turn industrial wasteland into AI hotbeds on US visit

Peter Kyle will detail how ‘relics of economic eras past’ will be transformed into so-called ‘growth zones’.

By contributor Nina Lloyd, PA Political Correspondent

Published Mar 20

Science, Innovation and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle will set out the plans in a speech in the US (James Manning/PA)

The UK Technology Secretary will set out plans to turn areas of industrial wasteland into “hotbeds” for AI development in a pitch to American investors during a visit to the US.

Speaking at a business summit in San Jose, Peter Kyle will detail how “relics of economic eras past” will be transformed into so-called “growth zones” dedicated to attracting investment through advances in computing.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has set out an AI “action plan” to drastically expand use of the technology with the aim of helping to revolutionise creaking public services and turn around Britain’s economy.

Sir Keir Starmer unveils the AI Opportunity Action Plan — Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said he wants the UK to become an AI ‘superpower’ in a speech earlier this year (Henry Nicholls/PA)

The measures include development of a series of “growth zones” around the country to build infrastructure such as data centres and improve access to the energy grid.