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Norfolk residents express shock and concern over massive proposed data centre and solar farm project
Overview
Evolution Power Limited has revealed plans to build one of the country's largest data centres alongside a massive solar farm on nearly 4,700 acres of farmland near Tilney St Lawrence in Norfolk. Named the Longmarsh Green Energy project, the scheme has sparked concern among local residents and officials regarding its scale, environmental impact, water usage, construction traffic, and proximity to RAF Marham.
Key points
- Evolution Power Limited proposes building a major data centre and a solar farm covering approximately 4,695 acres of farmland near Tilney St Lawrence in Norfolk.
- The data centre would require up to one gigawatt of power, supported by a solar farm generating up to 1.3GW, and connect to the Walpole electricity substation.
- The developers claim the project would create thousands of construction jobs and over 500 direct operational roles, with potential completion by 2032.
- Because the proposal is classified as a nationally significant infrastructure project, the final decision rests with the government rather than the local council.
- Local residents and business owners have expressed shock and concern over the massive scale, potential disruption, water usage, and lack of clear community benefits.
- Alistair Beales, leader of the Borough Council of King's Lynn and West Norfolk, raised concerns about Norfolk absorbing a disproportionate number of green energy projects and potential national security issues related to RAF Marham.