Migrating Geese Threaten Scotland AI Data Centre Plans
Conservationists warn that pink-footed geese could be impacted by a proposed AI data centre in Stirlingshire, Scotland.
Plans for a large AI data centre in Scotland are facing potential disruption from migrating geese, as conservation body NatureScot has raised concerns about the proposed site in Larbert, Stirlingshire. NatureScot has advised Falkirk Council that a habitats regulations assessment should be completed for the 300MW data centre.
The grassland at the proposed site has the potential to be used by pink-footed geese, which travel from Iceland and Greenland to winter in Britain. These birds typically forage within 6.5 miles of their roosts, and in times of scarcity, their range can extend up to 19 miles. A protected area for the geese, located approximately four miles from the data centre site, could conflict with potential foraging grounds.
NatureScot noted that while the grassland habitat is considered "sub-optimal" for geese due to surrounding woodland, it still presents a possibility for use. The agency's operations officer, Robyn Hennessey, stated that completing a habitats regulations assessment would be recommended due to this potential.
Furthermore, NatureScot highlighted the geese's sensitivity to disturbance, mentioning that they can be affected by activity near roads even while feeding on agricultural land. Despite these reservations, the agency has not formally objected to the data centre plans and does not anticipate an adverse effect on nearby natural heritage interests. They advised the council that while internationally important natural heritage interests are in the vicinity, they are not expected to be adversely affected by the proposal.
The development plan is for a 50-acre "hyperscale" computer processing facility, which could consume more power than 300,000 homes. The project has already faced opposition from thousands of people.
A spokesperson for Apatura, the company behind the development, acknowledged NatureScot's revised response regarding goose foraging patterns. The company stated its commitment to attracting inward investment to Scotland, creating jobs, and fostering economic growth without compromising environmental standards. Apatura affirmed its ongoing collaboration with policymakers, local authorities, and environmental agencies to ensure transparent operations.