Council Motion Seeks To Protect Local Designers And Artists From AI Displacement

A proposal to prioritise locally produced, human-created artwork in Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council projects is to go before full council next week.

The notice of motion, proposed by Councillor McQuillan and seconded by Councillor Peacock, will then be referred to the relevant committee for discussion.

It raises concerns about the growing use of artificial intelligence in design, illustration, branding and digital content production, and its potential impact on local creative professionals.

The motion argues that the rapid and unregulated use of AI risks undermining employment, devaluing creative skills and reducing opportunities for emerging artists.

It also recognises the contribution made by digital designers, artists and other creative professionals to the borough’s cultural, economic and community life.

Under the proposals, the council would prioritise locally produced, human-created digital design and artwork in its communications, branding, promotional materials and commissioned projects.

Guidance would also be developed to ensure that AI-generated content does not replace professional designers or artists within council procurement processes.

The motion calls for engagement with local creative practitioners to understand the challenges they face and explore how sustainable, fair employment can be supported.

It also asks the council to advocate for ethical, transparent and responsible use of AI across the borough, with technology complementing rather than replacing human creativity.

The proposals remain subject to council consideration, with the committee discussion providing an opportunity to examine how the measures could be put into practice.