Home / Technology / AI Data Centre Approved in Kent Despite Water Worries
AI Data Centre Approved in Kent Despite Water Worries
23 Oct
Summary
- Canterbury City Council approved an AI data centre near a landfill site.
- Concerns were raised over the facility's water cooling system and usage.
- The proposed water usage is considered equivalent to 60 households.
Canterbury City Council has granted planning permission for a new AI data centre to be built in Kent, near the Shelford Landfill in Broad Oak. The decision was made during a council meeting on 21 July, with the planning committee approving the proposal by a margin of four votes in favour, three abstentions, and one against.
Era4, the British technology infrastructure company behind the project, stated that the brownfield site offers an opportunity for efficient land use and connection to renewable energy sources. Despite environmental concerns voiced by councillors, particularly regarding the water cooling system and water usage, the plans were approved. Era4 clarified that their closed-loop cooling system would only operate when external temperatures exceed 25 degrees Celsius.
The proposed facility is expected to consume up to 1804 gallons (8.2m³) of water daily. This usage figure is below the 4399 gallons (20m³) suggested by South East Water. Council officials highlighted that this water consumption is equivalent to roughly 60 households, which they deemed not a significant comparative use of water. Concerns about the proximity to a landfill previously highlighted by residents due to rubbish accumulation and odour were also part of the discussion.
