North Somerset Council has made history by appointing a dedicated cabinet member for artificial intelligence—the first known instance of such a role at any council in England.
Steve Bridger, a former council leader representing Yatton as an Independent, has rejoined the cabinet to lead on digital innovation, AI, and service transformation. His appointment signals the council’s commitment to responsibly integrating AI technologies while focusing on community needs.
“North Somerset, like many councils, is developing AI tools,” Bridger explained. “But what matters most to me is that AI serves our residents and communities. It’s not simply about adopting AI or cutting staff—that is not the direction we want to take.”
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Bridger emphasized the importance of raising AI and data literacy among councillors and exploring ways to involve residents in decisions about AI deployment. “We must ensure we don’t outsource our judgement and empathy to AI,” he said, underscoring the human element in public service.
Having served as council leader from May 2022 until the May 2023 elections, Bridger brings extensive leadership experience to this new portfolio. Since then, he chaired the council’s Corporate, Assets, Transport, and Environment Scrutiny (CATES) committee, which played a key role in uncovering the Carlton Street Car Park scandal. “I took scrutiny very seriously and enjoyed the responsibility over those three years,” he reflected.
The CATES chairmanship will now pass to Mike Solomon, who is stepping down from the council cabinet. Bridger’s return marks a strategic moment as North Somerset positions itself at the forefront of ethical AI adoption in local government.