2025 will be a transformative year for the UK Government technology estate, driven by its strategic focus on artificial intelligence (AI), digital infrastructure, and organisational restructuring.
Shoaib Haroon shares a summary of the UK Government’s tech strategy and why now is a great time for senior tech talent to join the sector.
Artificial intelligence initiatives
In January 2025, the UK Government unveiled the AI Opportunities Action Plan, aiming to position the nation as a global leader in AI. The plan includes a 20-fold increase in public computing capacity by 2030, the creation of a National Data Library to provide high-impact public datasets for AI research, and the establishment of AI Growth Zones to expedite infrastructure development. These initiatives are designed to integrate AI across various sectors, enhancing public services and stimulating economic growth.
Digital infrastructure enhancements
To support the burgeoning AI sector and broader digital needs, the Government is investing in critical infrastructure. Plans are underway to construct new supercomputing facilities and expand data centre capacities. The establishment of AI Growth Zones aims to streamline planning processes and provide necessary energy resources for data centres, thereby accelerating the deployment of digital infrastructure.
Organisational restructuring
In a move to enhance efficiency in infrastructure delivery, the government announced the formation of the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA), effective from April 2025. This new executive agency will merge the functions of the National Infrastructure Commission and the Infrastructure and Projects Authority, aiming to expedite major infrastructure projects across the UK.
Additionally, the Government Digital Service (GDS) and the Central Digital and Data Office (CDDO) have been integrated into the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT). In January 2025, DSIT announced a merger of several organisations, including GDS, CDDO, and parts of the Responsible Tech Adoption Unit, into a newly consolidated Government Digital Service. This reorganisation aims to streamline digital functions and bolster the government’s capacity to deliver modern digital services.
What does this mean for the future outlook of the UK?
The UK Government’s tech strategy and strategic investments in AI and digital infrastructure, coupled with organisational reforms, are poised to modernise public services and enhance the nation’s competitiveness in the global technology landscape. These initiatives reflect a comprehensive approach to leveraging technology for economic growth and improved public service delivery. The dial is swiftly changing within the UK government and its approach and adoption of technology; there’s never been a better time for tech talent to join the senior Civil Service and deliver real impact.
If you would like to work in partnership and discuss how we can help accelerate the growth within senior leadership tech positions in Central Government, then please get in touch.