Commercial : Industrial News
Kao Data Expands Harlow Campus with Third Cutting-Edge Data Centre

Kao Data Expands Harlow Campus with Third Cutting-Edge Data Centre

Kao Data has unveiled plans for a third state-of-the-art data centre at its Harlow campus in Essex, further strengthening its position as a leader in high-performance computing and AI infrastructure. The new KLON-03 facility will deliver 17.6MW of capacity and operate entirely on renewable energy. It will feature advanced hybrid-cooled,

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Logic-i appointed to key role in Teesworks’ Steel River Power project

Logic-i appointed to key role in Teesworks’ Steel River Power project

Logic-i has been selected to deliver pivotal project management and planning roles for the Steel River Power project at Teesworks, one of the UK’s most ambitious industrial regeneration sites. As an independent project management consultancy, Yarm-headquartered Logic-i will play a key role over the next three to five years in

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Green Light for Three New Warehouses at APTUS in Preston

Green Light for Three New Warehouses at APTUS in Preston

HBD, part of Henry Boot, and Barnfield Group have secured planning approval for three additional industrial units at their APTUS logistics scheme in Preston, Lancashire. The £100 million development is set to create up to 1,500 jobs and will deliver a total of 800,000 sq ft of high-quality, sustainable industrial

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Panattoni completes state-of-the-art facility for Tesco

Panattoni completes state-of-the-art facility for Tesco

Panattoni, the world’s largest privately owned industrial developer, announces the completion of a bespoke built-to-suit (BTS) 621,000 sq ft facility and its occupation by Tesco, the UK’s leading retailer, at Panattoni Park Aylesford. The completion of this project marks a significant milestone in supporting supply chain efficiency for Tesco, enabling

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Europe’s largest cloud and AI data centre gets approved

Europe’s largest cloud and AI data centre gets approved

DC01UK’s planning application for a new state-of-the-art data centre has recently been approved by Hertsmere Borough Council’s planning committee. The new facility has been given the green light just one week after the Government launched its AI Opportunities Action Plan. The Plan outlines the economic growth opportunities presented by the

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Latest Issue
Issue 330 : Jul 2025

Commercial : Industrial News

Kao Data Expands Harlow Campus with Third Cutting-Edge Data Centre

Kao Data Expands Harlow Campus with Third Cutting-Edge Data Centre

Kao Data has unveiled plans for a third state-of-the-art data centre at its Harlow campus in Essex, further strengthening its position as a leader in high-performance computing and AI infrastructure. The new KLON-03 facility will deliver 17.6MW of capacity and operate entirely on renewable energy. It will feature advanced hybrid-cooled, hot aisle containment (HAC) systems, capable of supporting high-density computing with rack densities of up to 130kW. Since opening in 2018, Kao Data’s 656,600 sq ft Harlow campus has become a key hub for AI, cloud computing, and GPU-powered deployments. Its existing KLON-01 and KLON-02 data centres each provide 10MW of capacity. David Bloom, founder and chairman of Kao Data, reflected on the milestone: “This year marks a decade since our vision for the Harlow campus began, and it’s fantastic to see it firmly established as the UK’s leading destination for advanced computing. KLON-03 will set a new benchmark for our industrial-scale data centre platform, delivering one of the country’s largest footprints of liquid-cooled capacity in line with the government’s AI Opportunities Action Plan.” Kao Data chief executive Doug Loewe added: “The era of AI is truly here, and it’s fitting that we continue to innovate on the very campus where Sir Charles Kao pioneered fibre optics. Our technical team has refined the design to push the boundaries of efficiency, and we’re excited to bring our first large-scale, liquid-cooled infrastructure to life.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Sustainable Logistics Hub Planned for Letchworth as Bridges and Wrenbridge Secure Key Site

Sustainable Logistics Hub Planned for Letchworth as Bridges and Wrenbridge Secure Key Site

Bridges Fund Management and Wrenbridge have acquired a prime 6.5-acre site in Letchworth, Hertfordshire, with plans to develop a cutting-edge 130,000 sq ft logistics scheme. The site, purchased from Tesco and Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation for an undisclosed sum, will be transformed into three state-of-the-art warehouses. Designed to meet the highest sustainability standards, the development will achieve an EPC ‘A+’ rating and operate at net zero carbon. Harry Gibson, director at Wrenbridge, commented: “This acquisition marks our fifth purchase with Bridges, and we remain on the lookout for further opportunities. We are excited to deliver another high-quality, sustainable industrial scheme that will drive local economic growth and provide best-in-class space for businesses in an undersupplied market.” Graham Fisher, chief executive at Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation, welcomed the investment: “A core part of the foundation’s strategy is to attract new investors, unlock regeneration opportunities, and support economic growth. We are pleased that Wrenbridge and Bridges share our vision and are investing in the heart of our industrial area.” The deal saw JLL represent Tesco, while Savills advised Wrenbridge. Kirkby Diamond and Clarke Willmott acted on behalf of Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Logic-i appointed to key role in Teesworks’ Steel River Power project

Logic-i appointed to key role in Teesworks’ Steel River Power project

Logic-i has been selected to deliver pivotal project management and planning roles for the Steel River Power project at Teesworks, one of the UK’s most ambitious industrial regeneration sites. As an independent project management consultancy, Yarm-headquartered Logic-i will play a key role over the next three to five years in overseeing the expansion of one of the UK’s largest private wire networks – a cornerstone in the transformation of the former Redcar steelworks site. The Steel River Power project, a joint venture between Steel River Energy Ltd. and North West Electricity Networks (UK) Ltd. (NWEN UK), represents an investment exceeding £100m that will serve to expand the existing Teesworks’ private electricity distribution network to support the sustainable growth of new and existing industries on-site and provide a long term electrical utility infrastructure for the site’s future developments. Logic-i will be responsible for managing the project’s contract administration, taking a detailed oversight of contract performance, ensuring all agreements and adjustments are comprehensively documented and align with project goals. This approach will support the project’s dynamic needs while maintaining strict adherence to timelines and budgets. Additionally, it will appoint a senior planning consultant to assist in the delivery of the Steel River Power masterplan. This role is essential for ensuring that the principal contractor, local sub-contractors and supply chain partners maintain synchronised schedules, ensuring project milestones are achieved efficiently. The consultant will also proactively anticipate and mitigate potential challenges, supporting the smooth progression and delivery of the project. Beyond its technical impact, the growth of the Steel River Power electrical network will deliver significant local benefits, including the creation of hundreds of new jobs and major infrastructure improvements, further solidifying the Teesworks site’s position as a leading green energy and industrial hub. Stephen Humble, a Director at Logic-i, said: “While Logic-i delivers projects globally, securing this contract has special significance as it enables us to contribute to a project of immense importance to Teesside and the wider North East region. This opportunity underscores our expertise in project management and represents a key milestone in our growth strategy. We look forward to building a successful partnership and supporting the future of Teesworks here in our home region.” Andy Laundon, Operations Director of Steel River Power Limited, added: “Given the immense scale of our capital programme, it is imperative that safe delivery of the expansion project is the overarching priority. As such, we are delighted to have engaged Logic-i to oversee the contractual performance of the principal contractor and local sub-contractors. Their proven track record and expertise will be an asset to Steel River Power and to the facilitation of wider development on Teesworks, whilst maintaining alignment to Steel River Power’s principles of utilising local supply chain partners.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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GMI Construction Group achieves practical completion of £32.9m Urban 8 Logistics Park

GMI Construction Group achieves practical completion of £32.9m Urban 8 Logistics Park

GMI Construction Group has celebrated the successful completion of the £32.9m Urban 8 Logistics Park at King’s Norton, Birmingham – transforming the former Pilkington Automotive and GKN Aerospace sites into a state-of-the-art warehousing and logistics hub. The 400,000 sq. ft speculative development by Canmoor Asset Management and Tristan Capital Partners, in partnership with regeneration specialists St Francis Group, comprises eight BREEAM Outstanding EPC A-rated units ranging from 25,000 sq. ft to 70,000 sq. ft. The 29 acre former brownfield site is set to bring up to 900 jobs to the area, further enhancing the West Midlands’ infrastructure and logistics capabilities. GMI delivered the project on time and to a high standard despite initial adverse weather conditions and the constraints of the site, located off Eckersall Road and adjacent to the A441 and A38. The development features a variety of sustainable measures including LED lighting, over 300,000kWh/annum of PV power generation, electric vehicle charging and energy saving infrastructure – resulting in overall CO2 emissions savings of 25%. The high specification detached units are set amid landscaped surroundings and are externally finished in composite metal cladding in various grey and silver finishes, with glazing incorporated into entrances and office spaces. Simon Dale, Director of Operations at St Francis Group, said: “From commencement to PC, the GMI Team have been a pleasure to work with – a delivery partner in the truest sense. Working in a collaborative way the site team met all of the challenges that multi-unit schemes provide, to deliver a high-quality development that matched everyone’s expectations. Well done to the GMI Team.” Adam Taylor, GMI’s Regional Director, Midlands, added: “This project underscores GMI’s capability to deliver large-scale, impactful developments. It will significantly contribute to local employment and skills development while showcasing Birmingham’s prominence in the logistics sector. The collaboration between all stakeholders has been outstanding, and we are proud to hand over this first-class facility.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Work will complete in spring on one of Europe’s most advanced clinical and hazardous waste incinerators

Work will complete in spring on one of Europe’s most advanced clinical and hazardous waste incinerators

Work will complete this spring on a multi-million-pound state-of-the-art incinerator at Newton Aycliffe in County Durham that will process up to 10,500 tonnes of clinical and hazardous waste each year and transform it into a low-carbon heat source for local businesses. The 75,000 sq ft facility at Merchant Park is being development managed by INDEV Projects on behalf of Fornax Environmental Solutions and Gresham House, which is an £8.3billion asset management fund. Yorkshire based Tate Consulting is providing full mechanical and electrical design services on the project and GMI Construction Group is the principal contractor. The high-temperature treatment facility, which is set to create more than 17 highly skilled jobs, will be operated by Fornax Environmental Solutions and will process waste that cannot be sent to landfill, recycled or go to other types of energy-from-waste plants. The site’s innovative technology will produce a zero-carbon district heating scheme within Merchant Park. The development is part of an initial £15million investment, excluding the incinerator installation, which will be undertaken as a second phase by renewable heat specialist, Nordheat. The site is set to open in 2026 and has been designed to comfortably meet and surpass new regulations on emission controls, which will be introduced later this year. Currently there are only three high-temperature treatment facilities for clinical and hazardous waste in the UK. Once the site is operational, it will process all types of clinical waste from hospitals, nursing homes, dental clinics, GP surgeries and veterinary practices. It will also be used for certain items of hazardous waste which could include electrical items, DIY related materials and certain beauty products. Ray Cavanagh, who is a director at Yorkshire headquartered Tate Consulting, said: “This is the first thermal treatment project that we’ve worked on, but it’s a perfect fit for us because it plays to our strengths of adding value to pioneering and high-quality developments that are environmentally astute, highly sustainable and institutionally funded. “We have designed and will be implementing cutting-edge solutions at every stage of the project spanning the mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) services, a highly advanced sprinkler system as well as integrating the site into a 5.6MW district heating system.” Nick McTague, from INDEV Projects, which is a joint venture between Tate Group and Generate Real Estate, said: “Once complete, the facility will boast the latest energy-from-waste technology, which will be complemented by a wide range of green credentials. “The whole building will be highly insulated and constructed with low or zero volatile organic compound materials, Forest Stewardship Council-certified wood, some recycled steel, eco-friendly paint, solar panels and a sustainable urban drainage system. All this will combine to create one of the most advanced, high-temperature treatment facilities of its kind in Europe.” Other companies in the development team include architects, ASA, structural engineering practice, Burrows Graham and quantity surveyor and employer’s agent, KAM. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Green Light for Three New Warehouses at APTUS in Preston

Green Light for Three New Warehouses at APTUS in Preston

HBD, part of Henry Boot, and Barnfield Group have secured planning approval for three additional industrial units at their APTUS logistics scheme in Preston, Lancashire. The £100 million development is set to create up to 1,500 jobs and will deliver a total of 800,000 sq ft of high-quality, sustainable industrial space just off Junction 31A of the M6. The latest phase includes two adjoining units of 26,507 sq ft each, alongside a larger detached unit spanning 53,841 sq ft. Ed Hutchinson, Managing Director of HBD, said: “We’re pleased to have secured planning for a further 108,000 sq ft at APTUS. Its prime location, combined with strong sustainability credentials and power capabilities, continues to attract significant interest from potential occupiers.” Tracy Clavell-Bate, Head of Development at Barnfield Group, highlighted the benefits of the approval: “Having planning permission allows us to go to market with a ready-to-go scheme, making it highly attractive to occupiers. With limited supply in the region, we are ahead of the curve.” The scheme will incorporate a range of energy-saving features, including electric vehicle charging points and photovoltaic panels, as well as a 15-acre landscaped wildlife area designed for occupiers to enjoy. Across the wider APTUS development, units ranging from 25,000 sq ft to 500,000 sq ft will be available. Property agents Gerald Eve, Young & Co, and Eckersley Property have been appointed to market the scheme. The first confirmed occupier at APTUS is Kerakoll, with construction set to begin this summer on its 145,000 sq ft unit. HBD is one of the UK’s most established property developers, with a strong financial track record and a £1.3 billion development pipeline. The company focuses on industrial and logistics, urban regeneration, and residential projects, working in partnership with local authorities, investors, and developers. Barnfield Group, a Lancashire-based contractor, developer, and investor, has been delivering projects across the UK for more than 40 years. With a turnover of £80 million, the company is currently involved in more than 30 live developments, spanning a diverse range of sectors. With the latest approvals in place, APTUS is on track to become a major industrial and logistics hub in the North West, offering state-of-the-art facilities in a prime location. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Hartwell unveils £100m Phoenix Yard regeneration plans for former ironworks site in Digbeth

Hartwell unveils £100m Phoenix Yard regeneration plans for former ironworks site in Digbeth

Hartwell Plc, the automative and property development company, has unveiled £100 million regeneration plans to deliver Phoenix Yard, a landmark mixed-use scheme at the heart of Digbeth, Birmingham. The proposals will seek to transform an outdated and under-utilised brownfield site which totals 2.8-acre (1.134 hectare) and is beside Coventry Street, Oxford Street, Meriden Street, and Digbeth High Street to deliver a new gateway to Digbeth. The site has the potential to provide 260,000 sq ft (24,228 sq m) of media and educational space, commercial floorspace, 240 new homes units, retail, public realm and high-quality landscaping. The proposals have been sensitively developed by award-winning architects Allford Hall Monaghan Morris to pay homage to the site’s industrial history as Phoenix ironworks. This is combined with ambitious sustainability targets across the site which include BREEAM ‘Excellent’, WELL certification, WiredScore Platinum, SmartScore, NABERS and a minimum 10% biodiversity net gain. Phoenix Yard proposals will respond to Digbeth’s recognised potential as a growth area in Birmingham, which contributes to its ongoing transformation into a thriving and vibrant creative area. This includes the BBC’s new multi-million-pound Birmingham HQ at Typhoo Wharf and approval of the £1.9 billion Smithfield Market masterplan. The proposed Phoenix Yard is forecast to create circa 200 construction jobs and has the potential to create upwards of 500 FTE jobs, as well as attract a range of new residents to the area and provide a meaningful boost to the economy to support the area’s social and economic growth. Joanne Churchill, group property manager, Hartwell Plc said: “We are delighted to unveil our vision to transform an under-utilised brownfield site to deliver Phoenix Yard, a new mixed-use neighbourhood at the heart of Digbeth. Through unlocking the potential of this site, our plans promise to positively contribute to the area’s ongoing transformation into a thriving and vibrant part of Birmingham, delivering an exciting range of new opportunities and living space for the future. “In recent years Digbeth has benefitted from significant investment and is recognised by Birmingham City Council as a key growth area. This scheme has been designed with this investment and the wider ambitions for Birmingham in mind. The potential delivery of media and educational space will support the continuing growth of BBC Midlands HQ and its ecosystem following the BBC’s multi-million-pound investment into the area. Similarly, new homes will complement the site’s location in Digbeth’s creative centre. This will be supported by excellent connectivity, which is enhanced by nearby major transport investments including HS2’s Curzon Street Station and the Metro Eastside Extension. “We look forward to receiving comments on the proposals from local residents and businesses, with feedback set to help inform our final planning application.” Ahead of submitting a hybrid planning application to Birmingham City Council, Hartwell Plc has launched a public consultation for local residents and businesses to see and comment on the plans. A dedicated consultation website is now live at https://www.phoenixyard-digbeth.com/ with the deadline to provide feedback to close at 12pm on 31st March 2025. Acting on behalf of Hartwell are Allford Hall Monaghan Morris, Ridge, Cundall, Hoare Lea, Macfarlane + Associates and Newmark. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Volklec Targets Coventry Gigafactory as it Partners with Chinese Battery Firm

Volklec Targets Coventry Gigafactory as it Partners with Chinese Battery Firm

Battery manufacturer Volklec has joined forces with Chinese firm Far East Battery (FEB) as part of its long-term ambition to establish a 10GWh gigafactory in Coventry by the end of the decade. The Coventry-based company has signed an exclusive licence agreement with FEB to support the production of advanced lithium-ion batteries at the UK Battery Industrialisation Centre, where manufacturing is set to begin later this year. Phil Popham, former chief executive of Lotus Cars and now executive director at Volklec, highlighted the importance of securing the UK’s battery supply chain. He said: “There is no greater transformation today than the electric revolution in transport and mobility. The British start-up scene is thriving, but there is a substantial gap in the supply chain. Our mission is to help these innovators thrive.” Volklec plans to invest over £1bn in the development of its gigafactory, with Coventry emerging as a potential location. The company is reportedly in discussions with Coventry City Council to take over the proposed gigafactory site at Coventry Airport, which has yet to secure an investor despite planning permission being granted three years ago. The West Midlands Combined Authority recently announced a £23m funding package to unlock the site’s potential, including the installation of a dedicated energy supply to support large-scale battery production. With permission set to expire in March, the council remains confident it will secure an extension for another two years. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Panattoni completes state-of-the-art facility for Tesco

Panattoni completes state-of-the-art facility for Tesco

Panattoni, the world’s largest privately owned industrial developer, announces the completion of a bespoke built-to-suit (BTS) 621,000 sq ft facility and its occupation by Tesco, the UK’s leading retailer, at Panattoni Park Aylesford. The completion of this project marks a significant milestone in supporting supply chain efficiency for Tesco, enabling enhanced logistics and operational capabilities. The new facility was designed in close collaboration with Tesco to meet the company’s specific operational needs. It features a 300,000 sq ft chilled section, a 100,000 sq ft freezer area, and extensive electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure to support Tesco’s transition to an electric HGV fleet. The state-of-the-art buildings will play a crucial role in Tesco’s ongoing efforts to improve the efficiency of its supply chain and bolster its capacity to meet customer demand, integrating advanced technologies to optimise logistics operations while supporting sustainability initiatives. This landmark project marks a major milestone in delivering sustainable logistics infrastructure and driving significant economic growth in the region. The facility is expected to support Tesco’s operations while contributing to the local economy and generating new jobs. Panattoni’s focus on sustainability is illustrated by achieving a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ certification and EPC ‘A’ rating on Tesco’s. Tony Watkins, Head of Development: South East & London at Panattoni said: “The 621,000 sq ft facility is the culmination of our vision for the project to deliver cutting-edge operational capabilities for Tesco, creating jobs and generating benefits for Kent. This facility will also bring amenities such as retail, dining, and services, while driving investment in logistics and local businesses. “We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved at Panattoni Park Aylesford. This development showcases our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and collaboration with tenants such as Tesco, the local community, and stakeholders. Together, we have delivered a facility that sets a new benchmark for modern logistics.” Stuart Moffat, Head of Development – Distribution at Tesco said: “We have worked with Panattoni over the past few years to develop a bespoke facility that meets our operational needs while supporting our distribution and sustainability goals. Panattoni has proven to be such an efficient and proactive developer, and a fantastic partner in delivering this project at Panattoni Park Aylesford. This built-to-suit facility is particularly vital for us, incorporating cutting-edge ESG features, including 90,000 sq metres of solar panels and EV charging infrastructure that we have invested in to support our vehicles and staff.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Europe’s largest cloud and AI data centre gets approved

Europe’s largest cloud and AI data centre gets approved

DC01UK’s planning application for a new state-of-the-art data centre has recently been approved by Hertsmere Borough Council’s planning committee. The new facility has been given the green light just one week after the Government launched its AI Opportunities Action Plan. The Plan outlines the economic growth opportunities presented by the AI revolution, in which new data centres will play a pivotal role. The new Plan sets out long term plans for AI infrastructure needs, mitigates sustainability and includes security considerations for AI infrastructure. Last September, DC01UK’s planning application was widely reported on, when it featured exclusively in the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology’s announcement of the sector-wide reclassification of data centres as Critical National Infrastructure, which significantly bolstered the importance of data centres within the UK. DC01UK, when built, will be Europe’s largest cloud and AI data centre, with up to two million square feet of space, and the location of the data centre brings together the key pillars needed to fulfil the existing cloud shortfall and cater for the large increase in demand expected in future years. This includes a power reservation of 400MVA from National Grid, owing to its proximity to the Elstree (Letchmore Heath) substation and proximity to national and international fibre optic routes as well as nearby Availability Zones in the region. Economic projections estimate the construction value of the project at £3.75bn with a year-round generation of £21.4m in business rates once the data centre is operational. The positive economic impact of the data centre would also see the creation of 500 skilled on-site jobs during the construction phase, 200 permanent, skilled jobs once up and running and a further 13,740 indirect jobs, 10,900 of which would be in the South East. DC01UK is also estimated to generate approximately £1.1 billion per annum GVA (Gross Value Added) indirectly per year. This landscape-led scheme is set in 85 acres of grounds, 54 per cent of which will be retained as green, open space, with a 10 per cent net biodiversity gain. The approved plans also include a suite of local benefits, including the confirmed expansion of the local cycle hire programme, £2m of upgrades for new and existing bus routes, and improvements to cycle paths, footpaths and crossings. There is also a significant financial contribution to local employment skills and opportunities included within the plans. A spokesperson for DC01UK, commenting on their successful planning application, said: “We want to thank Hertsmere Borough Council for their open and pragmatic approach to DC01UK’s plans. They understand our ambition for both the project and the borough. It will bring huge benefits for local people through a stronger local economy, more skilled jobs and better opportunities. Our plans also include a raft of upgrades for local transport, including new and existing bus routes, expansion of the local cycle hire scheme and road improvements. “This approval will also solidify Hertsmere’s status as a leading region in the South East as a tech and media superhub, complementing other established, large technology-driven organisations and film studios in the area. “With planning for this important 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. “Our plan will put Hertfordshire at the epicentre of the new data centre revolution, as well as creating £3.75bn for the economy during construction and almost 14,000 indirect jobs once operational.” Minister for Telecoms, Sir Chris Bryant MP, said: “Data centres are the beating hearts of this modern age, powering the digital infrastructure that we can no longer live without. “That is why I am thrilled to see that Hertsmere Council has granted planning permission to one of the largest data centre projects in Europe. “Data centres like this will not only play a pivotal role in our AI Opportunities Action Plan, but drive economic growth through the creation of skilled jobs across the South East.” Cllr Jeremy Newmark, Leader of Hertsmere Borough Council and Chair of the Hertfordshire Growth Board, said: “This is a momentous development for our borough. Hertsmere has cleared the way to becoming the home of a data centre which will be integral to serving Britain with cutting-edge technology. It’ll be a piece of critical national infrastructure needed for many generations to come. “The project, which is aligned with the council’s vision, is set to deliver hugely significant growth and economic benefits for the area, creating jobs during and after the construction phase, as well as new businesses. This news clearly reinforces Hertsmere’s status as an extremely attractive location for business and industry, with a reputation that is getting even stronger. “The data centre will provide critical synergies for our significant local film and TV sector, with three major sets of studios in Borehamwood. “The Government’s AI Opportunities Action Plan, which was announced earlier this month, shows the impact that the AI revolution is likely to have for many years to come and data centres, such as this, will play a major part. “While outline planning permission has been granted, we will, of course, continue to listen to and engage with residents about these exciting plans as more details are firmed up. As I’ve said before, I’m sure local people will see the massive value this development could bring to our area.” Stephen Beard, Head of Data Centres at Knight Frank who is advising on the project, said: “DC01UK is a first of its kind. 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.”  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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