The University of York is playing a central role in a bid to establish York and North Yorkshire as one of the UK’s new AI Growth Zones.
The initiative, part of the Government’s wider push to position the UK as a global leader in artificial intelligence, seeks major investment to build AI-enabled data centres and boost access to power through supporting infrastructure.
Led by the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, the proposal is anchored in the University of York’s expertise in the responsible development and use of AI. “This is such an opportunity for York and North Yorkshire to be a beacon for responsible AI innovation,” said Charlie Jeffery, Vice-Chancellor. The plan combines economic ambition with a strong emphasis on ethical practices, reflecting the university’s leadership in AI safety, ethics and community benefit.
If approved, the Growth Zone could unlock an estimated £85 billion in economic growth across Yorkshire and the Humber. The bid is backed by regional partners including North Yorkshire Council, Drax Power Station and several universities. David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, described the submission as “ambitious” and aligned with the Government’s 'Plans for Change'.
A centrepiece of the proposal is the world’s first carbon-negative data centre, to be based at Drax as part of an AI and Clean Energy Campus. The facility is designed to address national priorities such as energy and food security and data sovereignty, while spurring innovation in sectors including life sciences, clean energy and the creative industries.
The Government’s AI Growth Zones programme aims to stimulate regional innovation and economic development through targeted investment. Regions have been invited to submit proposals that promote responsible AI development and support local skills, jobs and digital inclusion.
York and North Yorkshire’s submission places community empowerment at its core, using AI to bridge public and private sectors, drive industry-academic collaboration and maintain the region’s edge in AI advancement.
Successful bids are expected to be announced after the Comprehensive Spending Review on 11 June 2025, a key moment in shaping the UK’s AI future.
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