Planning application submitted for sustainable data centre in Stockport

Specialist data centre developer and operator, Kao Data, has submitted a planning application to Stockport Council to deliver a £350 million, 40MW data centre in the town.

The project, planned for a disused industrial estate in Reddish aims to provide the technological infrastructure that can further advance the local digital economy in Stockport and Greater Manchester, and more widely across the North West. Since the acquisition of the Kenwood Road site in May 2023, Kao Data has developed comprehensive plans for the new facility. A public consultation during October found the majority of respondents welcomed the sustainability and energy efficiency considerations that were illustrated in the proposed plans.

The proposed data centre, situated on the site of a former 1970s industrial warehouse, stands as a testament to its strategic location due to its robust infrastructure support, access to renewable energy, and its potential to serve as a central digital hub for businesses. If approved, this facility will not only bolster local economic growth but also play a pivotal role in advancing scientific research and technological aspirations in Stockport and Greater Manchester, while supporting government ambitions for the UK to become a world-leader in tech.

Committed to environmental stewardship, Kao Data’s facility will utilise 100% certified renewable energy and employ sustainable Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuel for backup generators, significantly reducing net CO₂ emissions by 90%, and the data centre’s environmental impact. Additionally, the proposed implementation of an advanced cooling system will further enhance energy efficiency, aligning with the company’s dedication to sustainability.

Spencer Lamb, Chief Commercial Officer at Kao Data, said:

“Our new data centre signifies a substantial investment in Stockport and Greater Manchester’s future digital infrastructure. This state-of-the-art facility will cater for the region’s evolving digital needs, supporting technological research, demands for AI, and economic growth.”

To ensure community involvement, Kao Data conducted a virtual consultation to gather feedback, acknowledging the invaluable contributions from local residents in shaping this project’s development.