Europe’s largest cloud and AI data centre approved

DC01UK has been granted planning permission for a new data centre in Hertsmere, Hertfordshire, after lodging proposals with the local council last year.  The approval comes a week after the government launched its AI Opportunities Action Plan, outlining the economic growth opportunities presented by the AI revolution, in which new data centres play a pivotal role. DC01UK, when built, will span up to 2m sq ft, featuring a power reservation of 400MVA from National Grid. The construction value of the project is projected at  £3.8bn with a year-round generation of £21.4m in business rates once the data centre is operational. DC01UK will also generate an estimated £1.1bn per annum GVA indirectly per year. The development sits in 85 acres of grounds, 54% of which will be retained as green open space. The approved plans also include local benefits, including the expansion of the local cycle hire programme, £2m of upgrades for new and existing bus routes, and improvements to cycle paths, footpaths and crossings. A spokesperson for DC01UK said: “With planning for this piece of critical national infrastructure now approved, the site stands ready to power the needs of tomorrow bringing a much-welcomed boost to the UK’s digital economy.” Stephen Beard, head of data centres at Knight Frank, who is advising on the project, said: “The largest data centre development in Europe in the world’s second largest market, which is perfectly positioned in its ability to service the ever-increasing cloud demand today whilst accommodating the AI needs of tomorrow. A first and great example of the UK’s shift towards becoming a dominant superpower in cloud, AI and general digital infrastructure.”