What does Oxfordshire's AI growth zone status mean?

Oxfordshire became the first of five Artificial Intelligence (AI) Growth Zones across the UK last year as part of government plans to make the country a leading global player in the technology's development.

A large trade deal signed between the UK and the US in September committed billions of pounds for AI development - much of which could come in Oxfordshire.

Announcing the new growth zones, the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Technology, Peter Kyle, said they would deliver "untold opportunities".

But what does being appointed a "growth zone" actually mean for the county?

Guy Gadney is the chief executive of Oxfordshire-based firm Charisma AI - which develops training tools for employers using AI avatars

He said the county's potential was "huge".

"It's really good to see recognition finally coming to this area - it's been a long time coming," he said.

The country's first AI Growth Zone will be based in Culham - which is home to the UK Atomic Energy Agency.

Explaining the location, the government said the site would serve as a testing ground for how sustainable energy could "power the UK's AI ambitions".

Kyle said the new growth zone would "spark new jobs and fresh investment".

"We're leaving no stone unturned in how we can harness expertise from all over the UK to deliver new opportunities, fresh growth, better public services and cement our position as an AI pioneer," he added.

Gadney explained that is was "almost overwhelming how fast everything is moving" in relation to AI.

"Just take that moment to stop and think and make sure we're doing the right thing," he urged fellow workers in the sector.

But he said he remained optimistic for the future, adding: "The really exciting thing for me is what can we do that we couldn't do before."

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