Cardiff Data Centre Proposal Sparks Environmental and Political Opposition
Plans for a data center development at Cardiff East Park and Ride site are facing significant backlash from local residents, environmental groups, and politicians concerned about potential pollution, noise, and the use of fossil fuels.
A proposed data centre development at the Cardiff East Park and Ride site is drawing criticism from various stakeholders, who are raising concerns about its environmental impact and proximity to residential areas and essential services.
Local residents have voiced worries about potential noise and pollution from the facility. James George, 32, expressed apprehension regarding the project's effect on the environment and his home, specifically citing the potential need for diesel generators during power disruptions. Alexander Grant, 51, highlighted concerns for the nearby Heath hospital, its staff, and patients, while also labeling the environmental implications as a "travesty." Dale Harvey echoed these sentiments, fearing increased noise pollution on top of the existing A48 dual carriageway.
The developer, Curtis Hall, stated that the site would not be audible locally and would have no significant impact on air quality. The company explained that the gas generation included in the plans is not the permanent power supply for the data centre. "The gas turbines appear in the planning documents because they represent the worst case for emissions and noise, so assessing them tests the upper limit of any impact," a spokesperson said. They added that if the grid connection is live in time, the energy centre may not be needed at all. The company also noted that the technology for the energy centre is "not confirmed," suggesting the possibility of fuel cells that could use gas or hydrogen. Curtis Hall contends that the development will bring "significant benefits," including a new road bridge, investment, job creation, and training opportunities.
Environmental campaign group Friends of the Earth Cymru has criticized the plans, with interim director Jenny Lloyd calling the proposal "completely irresponsible" given recent climate events. Plaid Cymru MS Nick Carter questioned the siting of the data centre in an urban area near schools and care homes, pointing out that it includes a "small gas-fired power station." Senior Labour councillor Lee Bridgeman also raised objections, writing that the centre's emissions are "hard to reconcile" with Cardiff's climate emergency declaration and Planning Policy Wales. The company asserted that south Wales' electricity grid is rapidly decarbonizing, with plans for floating offshore wind projects.
Curtis Hall switched its plans from a logistics centre to a data centre due to "changing market demand," according to Cardiff Council. The overall plans for the site include a new bridge and link road for pedestrians and cyclists.