AI for public realm challenges.

Councils across the UK are facing similar challenges: fragmented monitoring systems, rising service pressures, and increasing expectations for cleaner, safer, fairer streets. This preliminary market engagement gives Local Authorities the opportunity to come together, shape the commissioning strategy, and take part in coordinated trials of emerging technology that can deliver real, measurable benefits.

This engagement is not simply an exploration of new technology—it’s about shaping the future of innovation procurement in the public realm. Councils are invited to register their interest so they can influence priorities, shape the commissioning strategy, help refine and validate requirements, and collaborate across multiple trials to build a shared, scalable approach that benefits the wider sector.

By connecting with the market early, we’ll gain immediate insight into what solutions are ready now, what’s emerging, and how these innovations can be scaled across multiple councils. Supplier insights will play a key role in informing strategy and prioritisation, ensuring that investments align with real-world capabilities and needs.

How do we solve fragmented monitoring systems for street assets, waste, traffic?

Councils still rely on manual inspections, resident reports, and static cameras—methods that are slow, costly, and unable to keep pace with dynamic urban environments. This leads to delayed responses, higher operational costs, and missed opportunities for proactive maintenance and enforcement.

From overflowing bins and hazardous waste to parking bay misuse, traffic contraventions, and antisocial behaviour, councils face a growing set of monitoring challenges that require integrated, real-time visibility.

Cleanliness and hygiene – Overflowing bins, dumped rubbish, and fouling create unpleasant streets and health risks.

Safety and accessibility – Potholes, cracked pavements, and uneven surfaces can cause accidents, especially for vulnerable groups like the elderly, parents with prams, and people with disabilities.

Fairness and compliance – Poor enforcement of traffic rules and parking bays leads to congestion and frustration for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. Citizens want fair and consistent enforcement.

Public confidence – Visible issues—such as graffiti, anti-social behaviour, and neglected infrastructure—erode trust in local services. Residents expect proactive action, not reactive fixes.