Tech Town status will position Barnsley as the UK's trailblazer, acting as a national blueprint for how AI can improve everyday life, including AI tools that help GPs triage patients quicker.

Over the next 18 months, government will work closely with local business leaders, educators, NHS workers and more to build local talent to make local services fit for the AI era.

This will include partnering with Barnsley Hospital to test AI tools that offer quicker check-ins, faster triage and smoother outpatient care.

Science and technology secretary, Liz Kendall, said: ‘If we are going to get AI to work for Britain, we need Britons and British public services that can work with AI. That is why Barnsley's ambitions are crucial, because if we can show that AI helps young people learn, supports local businesses to be more productive, and improves public services, then we can show what's possible for the whole country. 

‘What we learn here will shape how we roll out AI across the UK - making sure every community sees the benefits.'