This planned 600MW data center in London’s green belt has infuriated local residents
A data center planned to be built in London's green belt has infuriated local residents, and the developer's own plans say it won't meet Net Zero.
A planned data center in London's green belt has sparked outrage among local residents due to its potential impact on the natural setting and community. The site, which will cover over 200 acres of green space, is projected to generate the highest carbon emissions among any UK data center. Developers promise jobs, investment, and a park, but residents remain skeptical.
North Ockendon resident Emma Edmonds stated, "Most people absolutely don't want this. It's sacrilege to just build something like that here. It's not the right place at all." Danny Leach, whose property is near the development, expressed concern over the construction noise, increased traffic, and the carbon emissions from the data center.
The North Ockendon Residents Association labeled the project as a "massacre" of green belt land. The developers, Digital Reef, have promised 620 full-time jobs, a 113-hectare Ecology Park with a net biodiversity gain, and an £11.54 million community payment. However, Digital Reef acknowledges that the site does not align with a science-based 1.5C compatible trajectory and does not meet Net Zero commitments by 2050.
Instead, any shortfall would be covered by a cash contribution to the borough's carbon offset fund, estimated at around £77.6 million.
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