Gwynedd Data Centre Plans Spark Environmental Concerns Among Campaigners

Plans for a sprawling 101-acre data centre between Caernarfon and Y Felinheli in Gwynedd have ignited strong opposition from local campaigners who warn of a "heartbreaking" impact on the landscape and wildlife. The proposed development, put forth by Canolfan Ddata Menai, aims to transform a long-derelict industrial site, promising over 900 jobs during construction and an additional 200 permanent roles. However, nearly 15,000 people have signed a petition against the plans, citing concerns about the development's excessive size, potential noise pollution, and its effect on the natural surroundings.

Data centres, essential for running a vast array of digital services from online banking to movie streaming, are classified as critical national infrastructure by the UK government. Recent Senedd research indicates that a significant portion of jobs in the UK now rely on these facilities. The proposed Gwynedd centre includes five main data storage buildings, with the tallest structure reaching 98 feet (30 meters).

Beyond the visual impact, campaigners have raised alarms regarding the substantial water usage of such facilities. The plans indicate an average daily water consumption of approximately 700,000 liters, with a potential maximum of 12 million liters per day. Developers have stated this maximum figure represents a "higher maximum-use scenario" necessary for environmental assessments, and have assured that no water would be drawn from or discharged into the Menai Strait.

Councillor Gwion Emyr acknowledged the need for development at the disused Ferodo site, which has remained empty for over two decades. "We need something there," Emyr stated, but cautioned that "jobs can't come at the expense of the local community."

The UK currently has 568 data centres, with projections suggesting a nearly 20% increase, including nine proposed for Wales. While a Senedd Research document highlights the opportunities data centres can bring – such as jobs, investment, and skills development – it also acknowledges the significant challenges they pose, including electricity demand, grid capacity, water use, land requirements, biodiversity impacts, and effects on local communities. Ofgem has reported a sharp rise in electricity demand from data centre projects seeking grid connections. Water UK estimates that data centres collectively use around 6.6 million liters of water daily, equivalent to the needs of 20,000 homes.

A spokesperson for Canolfan Ddata Menai stated that the design aims to minimize visual impact through building materials, landscaping, and layout. They also emphasized that eight hectares of the site would be dedicated to biodiversity enhancement and that noise mitigation measures are included in the design. The planning proposals are currently open for public consultation, with feedback accepted until October 17.