Plan for controversial Sydney data centre scrapped after push-back
Goodman Group, the property giant behind the Project Mars data centre, says the decision is due to changes to the "policy and regulatory environment".
Plans for a proposed 90-megawatt data centre, known as Project Mars, have been cancelled after fierce opposition from local residents and campaigners in Sydney's Lane Cove suburb. Developed by Goodman Group, Australia's largest property company, the A$1.2 billion facility was to be constructed just 20 metres from the nearest home.
The company cited the evolving policy and regulatory environment for the decision, as well as the significant concerns raised by the community during extensive consultations. The proposal received 374 submissions, with only nine in support. This decision comes as Australia grapples with the rapid growth of data centres, driven by the increase in demand for AI technologies.
While the government encourages investment in the sector, there is growing opposition due to the substantial water and energy requirements, as well as the disruption these facilities cause to local communities. The cancellation of Project Mars is seen as a victory for the Lane Cove West community, highlighting the importance of proper planning and community engagement in large-scale infrastructure projects.
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