Understand
Norwich data centre plans raise concerns over noise and wildlife impact
Overview
Plans for a massive 150-megawatt data centre in Keswick on the edge of Norwich have submitted to South Norfolk Council, sparking local concern over noise pollution, water usage, and visual impact on nearby wildlife sites. While thousands have signed a petition against the proposal and local leaders intend to formally object, Norwich Apex Data Centre defends the project, stating that environmental assessments show it will not harm protected areas and that mitigation will keep noise levels in line with background sounds.
Key points
- Plans have been submitted to South Norfolk Council for a 150-megawatt data centre in Keswick, on the edge of Norwich.
- Assessments indicated the facility has the potential to generate very high noise levels, largely from 72 rooftop chiller units, requiring extensive mitigation.
- Thousands of people have signed a petition opposing the development due to fears of wildlife and landscape harm.
- Norwich Apex Data Centre stated that environmental assessments show no harm to nearby designated wildlife sites and confirmed that air-cooling technology will be used instead of river or marsh water.
- The developer claims the project could create up to 150 permanent jobs and incorporate landscaping to screen the facility.
- Daniel Elmer, Conservative leader of South Norfolk Council, stated he will formally object because the facility is too large for the site and poorly suited to the southern gateway of the city.