The Great Construction vs AI Debate: A positive step forward for the industry

Blackpool and The Fylde College in partnership with Tyson Construction, recently presented The Great Construction vs AI Debate, a forward‑thinking event that brought together industry professionals to explore the growing role of artificial intelligence within the construction sector.

Held at Blackpool and Fylde College's immersive hub with it's impressive large‑scale 180 degree curved LED screen, the event created a vibrant and engaging atmosphere for discussion and collaboration.

With strong attendance from construction professionals, business leaders and sector specialists, there was plenty of opportunity for meaningful conversation and networking throughout the day.

The event was opened by the college's chief commercial and people officer Linda Dean and hosted by Tyson's business development director Philip Helm. 

The event progressed with keynote sessions offering different perspectives on how AI is influencing construction today and where it is heading next.

Mark Edwards, operational director at Seriun, focused on the practical, operational benefits of AI within the sector.

His session showcased how tools such as Microsoft Copilot and AI‑powered agents can support construction businesses by automating repetitive tasks, streamlining day‑to‑day processes and improving consistency across teams.

Mark emphasised that AI is already delivering tangible value by reducing administrative burden and enabling teams to work more efficiently, helping organisations focus time and effort where it matters most.

Mark Edwards said: “AI is no longer something on the horizon. It’s already helping the construction industry across the world save time and be more efficient.

"Having open conversations like this allows the industry in and around Lancashire to understand how to use AI in a practical, responsible way that genuinely supports the people doing the work.”

Providing a contrasting viewpoint, Hannah Bolton of DK Architects approached the topic from an architectural and creative perspective.

Her keynote speech focused on the role of human creativity, judgement and experience, making the case that while AI can be a powerful support tool, it will never replace the creative expertise at the heart of architectural design and planning.

Hannah highlighted the importance of using AI appropriately, reinforcing that technology should enhance creative work rather than attempt to replace it, particularly in a sector driven by design quality, collaboration and problem‑solving.

The event concluded with a panel discussion featuring Mark and Hannah, along with other key industry figures: David Mason - design manager at Tyson, Sarah Hall - director for business at Blackpool and The Fylde College, and Owen Ashton - regional digital construction manager at Morgan Sindall.

The panel debated how AI is being used in construction today and what the future may hold. A key takeaway from the panel was the broad agreement that AI is already proving extremely useful in handling routine and time‑consuming tasks.

By taking on this ‘grunt work’, AI allows professionals across the industry to focus more on creative thinking, project leadership and delivering high‑quality outcomes.

Overall, The Great Construction vs AI Debate was a highly positive and insightful event, sparking thoughtful discussion around innovation, opportunity and responsible adoption of new AI technologies.

With an engaged audience, strong networking and a standout venue, the event highlighted a growing appetite within the construction industry to embrace AI in ways that support people, expertise and long‑term progress.