The UK government is taking steps to make itself more attractive to tech professionals, considering the creation of ‘computing zones’ where datacenters can thrive with less bureaucracy. A recent report advises a streamlined visa process for AI talent and creating special areas for easier infrastructure development, reflecting themes discussed by figures like ex-Google head Eric Schmidt.

The ‘AI Opportunities Action Plan’, expected for public release in November, aims to boost UK’s tech sector by attracting global AI expertise. Challenges such as expensive, complex visa procedures have been brought to light, suggesting the need for significant reform to facilitate bringing skilled foreign workers into the country.

Further suggestions include establishing zones specifically for computing, reducing barriers to building datacenters with necessary infrastructure like energy and communication networks. Technology Secretary Peter Kyle’s prior recognition of datacenters as critical infrastructure marks a supportive government stance, enabling developers to bypass some planning hurdles.

However, energy constraints present potential obstacles, especially in regions like West London, already densely populated with datacenters. David Mytton of Oxford University highlights the concentration due to proximity to essential undersea fiber-optic connections. The call for collaborative policy efforts involving various stakeholders to address these limitations emphasizes a need for strategic planning.

The government’s tech strategy may face scrutiny as it prioritizes datacenter needs possibly over local community developments, like housing, in designated zones. The forthcoming response to recommendations will be crucial in determining the balance of interests and advancing the tech sector’s goals on a global stage.