Residents of the small Scottish village of Auchtertool, Fife, are protesting a proposed development that would become the world's second-largest data centre, raising concerns about its colossal size, potential environmental damage, and constant noise pollution.
The development, slated to cover an area larger than 100 football pitches, would dwarf the village's approximately 200 homes. Objectors claim it could raise local temperatures by nine degrees and disrupt wildlife with 24/7 noise. Data centres are crucial for storing and processing internet data, and Scotland is seen as a prime location due to its renewable energy resources.
More than 1,600 objections have been lodged against the plans, with protest banners appearing throughout the village and on residents' cars. Concerns include the potential impact of infrared noise on humans and animals, as well as flood risks in an area already prone to heavy rainfall. Developers, ILI Group, have stated that the project would create hundreds of jobs and have conducted information sessions for locals.
Andrea Cail, chair of the community council, stated that residents became aware of the plans around March 2025 and were initially concerned about the proposal's size and its placement on agricultural land. She noted that data centres are energy-intensive and require significant electricity and water. "We know it's a 24/7 facility, and once it's up and running, it won't just hum. It will make quite a bit of noise," Cail said, adding that concerns about radiated heat warming the surrounding land and the 'unknown quantity' of infrasound are significant worries.
Initially, Fife Council determined an environmental impact assessment was not mandatory. However, the Scottish government has since mandated a full assessment for the planning application. "We've been working with communities across Scotland who are all in similar boats. They've picked here because we have good grid connections and they will be able to get the electricity they require," Cail added.
Clare Williams, a resident of nine years, expressed concerns about noise and heat pollution, citing estimates that the centre would emit heat equivalent to 600,000 one-bar heaters. She emphasized her desire for a quiet life in the countryside, which she feels is threatened by the development. "The developers need to leave us alone. Our message is clear: Please reconsider and look at alternatives," Williams stated. Residents also worry about the potential decrease in property values.
Farmers Adele and Russell Seeth, whose farm is near the proposed site, fear for the welfare of their livestock. They cite a similar development in Nevada that reportedly resulted in stillborn foals. Their British showjumping horses, housed 270 meters from the proposed site, are a particular concern due to potential acoustic shock from the constant hum and emergency generator testing. The British Horse Society recommends a minimum distance of five miles for such facilities, according to Mrs. Seeth.
Mark Wilson, CEO of ILI Group, acknowledged the local concerns and stated that the proposal is subject to the planning process, including detailed technical assessments. "Noise assessments we have undertaken show the project can operate within acceptable limits," Wilson said, welcoming the mandated environmental impact assessment for further scrutiny. He added that the development is designed to meet current environmental and technological standards and that comparisons with international data centres may not reflect the specific design and regulatory requirements for this project in Scotland. ILI Group estimates the project could support approximately 1,450 job-years during construction and around 262 operational jobs in Fife. The company stated its commitment to continued constructive engagement with the community.