Specialist data centre developer, Kao Data, is launching a public consultation on its latest proposals for its new, £350 million data centre project in Stockport.
In May 2023, Kao Data acquired the site at Kenwood Road and since then has been hard at work developing a new scheme for the site. Kao Data is now seeking the views of the local community on its proposals before submitting a planning application to Stockport Council.
The announcement is the next milestone for the developer and operator of high-performance data centres as it moves ahead with its commitment to advancing the technological landscape in the North of England.
The proposed site, a former 1970s industrial warehouse, has been chosen for its unique combination of power accessibility, robust IT infrastructure support, and potential to serve as a central hub for businesses and organisations. Kao Data’s ambitious initiative represents a significant investment in both local and national digital infrastructure, with the potential to trigger positive economic ripple effects throughout Stockport and Greater Manchester.
If approved, the Kenwood Road data centre would be a beacon of technological advancement in northern England, uniquely positioned to support the region’s scientific research, media enterprises and local economic aspirations. The site will also be powered by 100% certified renewable energy, with back-up generators powered by sustainable Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuel. Proposals also include an efficient cooling system to further enhance energy efficiency and reduce the scheme’s overall environmental impact.
Spencer Lamb, Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) for Kao Data said:
“Our new data centre in Stockport represents a significant milestone in our mission to provide cutting-edge, sustainable infrastructure to the Greater Manchester region. We’re excited to breathe new life into this site and support the future digital requirements of the North West. This state-of-the-art data centre represents not only an important investment in Stockport, but an investment in Greater Manchester’s future digital infrastructure – supporting its technological research and economic ambitions.”
“We’re delighted to be sharing our plans with the local community and to hear their feedback before submitting our formal planning application to Stockport Council.”
To ensure that the views of the local community are taken into account, Kao Data has launched a virtual public consultation on the proposals which will run from Monday 9th October until Monday 23rd October 2023.
Residents can visit the website and provide feedback via an online feedback questionnaire. Alternatively, feedback can be emailed to the project team, who can also be contacted on a freephone information line: 0800 298 7040.
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