Shape the future of AI, challenge assumptions, and explore real-world innovation in a collaborative space.
The Innovation Think Pavilion is back at this year’s LCRIG Innovation & Learning Festival – and it’s more thought-provoking than ever. Taking place in the festival’s dedicated outdoor theatre, this intimate space is where big questions are asked, bold ideas are shared, and real collaboration happens. Every session is interactive, informal, and built around participation, not passivity.
While we’re not quite ready to release the full agenda just yet, we’re excited to share a first look at some of the sessions that will take place in the Think Pavilion. This initial trio dives into the opportunities and challenges surrounding AI – from trust and adoption to safety and liability.
Session One
“Roadside Assistance Required: When Your AI Gets Tricked at 70mph”
Speakers: National Highways Cyberfutures – Emyr Thomas and Maxwell Ash
With support from: Paula Claytonsmith and Karla Shorrock
Cyber Futures is a horizon-scanning capability at National Highways, focused on the safe and secure adoption of emerging technologies. In this session, the team will present their work on the potential impacts of AI on road operators and the unique challenges it brings – particularly around security vulnerabilities that could affect safety. You’ll hear about the approach they’ve taken to tackle these challenges, from applied research to academic partnerships, along with valuable lessons learned and the products enabling safe use and trials of emerging technologies.
Session Two
“Who Holds the Keys to AI Trust? Your Voice Shapes the Future.”
Facilitated by: Paula Claytonsmith and Sean Rooney
Imagine deploying AI that is not only powerful but also unequivocally trustworthy. What would that look like for your council? Whether you’re already using AI with confidence or holding back due to uncertainty, this collaborative, fast-paced session is your chance to help shape the future of AI adoption. Join Paula Claytonsmith and Sean Rooney as they:
- Uncover the core elements of AI trust from your perspective.
- Challenge assumptions about current AI usage and identify potential blind spots.
- Contribute directly to the development of vital guidance and support for our member councils.
Your input is crucial. Be part of the conversation that sets the standard for responsible, trustworthy AI in local government. Come prepared to share, learn, and influence the next steps in AI integration.
Session Three
“Unlocking Safer Roads: Can AI Be Our Ultimate Ally?”
Speakers: Legal Expert, LCRIG Sector Insights Team
AI’s influence is undeniable, yet its application in road safety assessment remains a frontier many councils are still hesitant to cross. This isn’t just about the technology – it’s about legal concerns, the skills needed to interpret AI-generated insights, and the potential risks of relying on AI-derived safety data. Join us for a dynamic, interactive discussion where we’ll explore both the potential and the pitfalls of using AI to identify road safety issues.
In this interactive session we’ll collaboratively explore:
- The transformative power: Can AI really pinpoint hazards and predict risks with unprecedented accuracy?
- Navigating the legal landscape: What are the vital questions around liability, data privacy, and ethical frameworks?
Your voice matters: This isn’t a lecture; it’s a collaborative workshop. Share your views, challenges, your supplier’s innovations, and your concerns, as we collectively work towards developing robust, practical, and legally sound tools for AI and road safety.
Leading the programme within the Think Pavilion is LCRIG’s Chief Executive, Paula Claytonsmith. With a passion for turning conversation into action, Paula shared what makes this year’s Think Pavilion stand out: “I’m really excited about this year’s Think Pavilion. These sessions are deliberately designed to be open, engaging, and rooted in real-world application. What you contribute won’t just stay in the room – it will directly shape future guidance, tools, and feed into LCRIG’s DfT supported AI work programme. I’d encourage everyone to come along, get involved, and help shape what comes next.”
Stay tuned for more Think Pavilion sessions to be revealed soon.
Join Us at the Festival
Be part of the sector’s most dynamic event for innovation and learning. Public sector delegate places are fully funded, and registration is open now for both public and private sector attendees.