Milton Keynes City Council has outlined three initiatives as part of a smart city action plan.
While not yet publishing the full plan, it has said it will support the Tech, Smart City, Digital and Creative Industries Strategy and is expected to be approved next week.
The first element is the enhancement of partnership, including the locally based Open University, through the MK:Smart programme.
Second is engagement, with a plan to involve residents through the new Experience Centre at centre:mk, a joint initiative between the council and private sector partners enabling people to interact with robots and digital technologies.
Third is to further develop the city’s technology testbed capabilities. The council has invited organisations interested in trialling new technologies to contact it through Invest Milton Keynes.
It will also continue to support nationally strategic innovation projects.
Testbed location
The council has established the city as a place where researchers can test initiatives to make cities greener and more pleasant to work in. Current live trials in the city involve self-driving shuttles, urban drone deliveries, and advanced radio communications.
Cllr Shanika Mahendran, cabinet member for economy, sustainability and innovation, said: “We’re really passionate about tech and innovation in Milton Keynes, especially if it means we can tackle climate issues, improve access to public health, create local jobs and deliver better public services for our residents.
“Our Smart City Action Plan ensures we continue to break down barriers between emerging tech and everyday life to prioritise how our residents can benefit. If you have an idea for a smart city trial that can improve the lives of Milton Keynes residents, we want to hear from you.”
