FAQs
Power and Energy
No. It benefits from a dedicated substation and its own feeder, meaning no impact on local supply or prices to businesses or homes.
Yes. solar panels will be provided to generate some electricity on site. Most of the electricity for the data centre will be generated off-site, from renewable sources . Backup generators used in the event of electricity outage will utilise 100% hydrogenated vegetable oil (HVO).
Our intention is that waste heat will be available for use locally. A connection point to a district heat network will be provided at the site boundary, and engagement with the local heat network operator is ongoing regarding future connection.
Jobs and Local Economy
Yes. From construction roles to long-term operational positions in facilities, security, and engineering. We will be working closely with local education providers and charities to provide a training and employment programme for the benefit of the local community.
The development will create hundreds of jobs during the construction of the data centre. Once operational, it will provide ongoing jobs in areas such as facilities management, security, engineering, and IT support. Wherever possible, we will work with local partners to ensure that local people have access to these opportunities, including through training and employability support.
The previous facility was a very bespoke design constructed 25 years ago for a specific customer, and it no longer met with modern standards for sustainable and environmental standards for businesses.
When it was vacated by Matches Fashion over a year ago, it was the perfect opportunity to redevelop it to meet modern business needs. The UK economy needs increased digital infrastructure to meet the growing demand by consumers and businesses. This location in west London was one of the few locations that could accommodate the specific needs of a data centre like this.
Environment and Community
No significant impacts are anticipated. Detailed modelling is ongoing, with mitigation strategies designed to comply with local authority standards.
The proposals include new planting and habitat creation, mature tree retention and other features to increase biodiversity value by 40%.
A construction management plan and logistics plan will be prepared by the contractor and agreed with the local authority to make sure disruption to local people, business and the environment is minimised.
Land Use and Planning
The site is located on designated industrial land, which local planning policy identifies as appropriate for data centre infrastructure. Plus, Park Royal is a high demand location for data centres because of its exceptional fibre connectivity and proximity to other data centre facilities, which makes them work very effectively.
No. This area is not designated for housing and the proposal enhances the site's economic output, which is what local planning policy requires.
Security
Yes—it received that status in 2024, affirming its strategic importance.
Security is fundamental to design. As Critical Infrastructure, it meets stringent national and sector-specific protocols.
Next steps
- Summer/Autumn 2025: planning application submitted.
- Winter 2026: planning application decided.
- Spring 2026: construction work starts.
- 2029: first operational use begins.
- 2030: construction works complete