Plans to construct what would be the United Kingdom's largest data centre on the site of a former coal-fired power station in Northumberland are facing intense scrutiny and growing opposition. The primary concern centres on the facility's projected water consumption, which campaigners warn could place unsustainable pressure on local resources.
A Thirsty Proposal for a Former Power Site
The development, proposed by a company named Karbon Data, is earmarked for the old Blyth power station site. If approved, the complex would span a vast 2.4 million square feet. While the shift from fossil fuels to digital infrastructure might seem like a modern transition, the project's environmental footprint, particularly its water use, has become a major flashpoint.
According to the planning application, the data centre would require a staggering 4.5 million litres of water per day for its cooling systems. To put this into perspective, that volume is equivalent to the daily domestic water use of a town with approximately 50,000 residents. This water would be drawn from the local public supply, managed by Northumbrian Water.
Local Backlash and Environmental Warnings
The scale of the proposed water demand has triggered alarm among local residents and environmental groups. A campaign group, Save the Blyth Valley, has been formed specifically to oppose the development. They argue that abstracting such a huge volume in a region not considered water-rich is irresponsible, especially in the context of climate change and increasingly frequent drought conditions.
"This is an enormous amount of water for an area that can ill afford it," a spokesperson for the group stated. "We are not against development, but it must be sustainable. This proposal seems to ignore the long-term environmental realities we face." The group's petition against the plans has already gathered significant local support.
Experts have echoed these concerns. Water resource analysts note that while data centres are crucial for modern life, their cooling needs present a major challenge. The Northumberland National Park Authority, while not a statutory consultee due to the site's location, has formally objected to the plans. Their submission highlights the "potentially significant adverse effect" on water resources and the broader landscape.
The Developer's Position and Planning Process
Karbon Data has defended its proposal, stating that the facility will be a major economic boost for the region, creating jobs and investing in local infrastructure. The company has indicated that the design will incorporate water-efficient cooling technology where possible. However, specific details on alternative sourcing or significant reductions in the headline water figure have not satisfied critics.
The planning application is currently under consideration by Northumberland County Council. A council spokesperson confirmed they are assessing the full environmental impact, with the issue of water supply being a key factor. The final decision could set a significant precedent for how the UK balances its rapid digital expansion with critical environmental limits, particularly outside the traditional hotspot of the southeast.
The controversy arrives at a time of heightened national focus on water security. With several regions in England having experienced hose pipe bans in recent years, the approval of a facility with such a colossal demand in Northumberland is being watched closely by industry and environmentalists nationwide. The council's verdict is expected in the coming months.
