Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: February 11, 2026

Purpose:

Content: Decision   RESOLVED that Cabinet approved the AI Policy as set out in Appendix 1.   Reasons for decision   The Council does not currently have an approved AI policy. Staff and services are seeking to utilise AI tools to support efficiency and service improvement. Without a clear governance framework and training, there is a growing risk of inappropriate use, data breaches, inaccuracies, or bias in automated outputs. The proposed AI Policy: • Provides an ethical and transparent approach for adopting and deploying AI solutions • Establishes governance standards aligned with the Council’s values and legal obligations • Ensures consistent, responsible, and auditable use of AI technologies • Supports innovation and enables the Council to take advantage of productivity opportunities   Reduces risks relating to data protection, equality, transparency, and service decision making.   A well-defined approach to AI will help the Council make effective use of emerging technologies while maintaining robust public sector governance standards.   Alternative Options Considered   Do nothing – Cabinet could have decided not to adopt an AI Policy. However, this would leave the organisation exposed to avoidable risks, including: • Data protection and information governance breaches • Unmanaged use of AI tools involving personal or commercially sensitive data • Reputational damage • Increased risk of bias or discriminatory impacts on customers • Lack of consistency across services   For these reasons, the “do nothing” option was not recommended.