Hertsmere Borough Council is backing plans for an 85-acre technology hub, which it claims will create thousands of jobs.
According to the authority, the £3.9billion scheme, which is funded by digital infrastructure firm Equinix, could be completed as early as 2030. In the meantime, 2,500 construction roles would be created, while 200 permanent positions would need to be filled once the site becomes operational.
‘This is a pivotal moment for Hertfordshire. It reflects our commitment to growth, innovation, skills and high-quality jobs, promising lasting value for residents and businesses,’ said Cllr Jeremy Newmark, leader of Hertsmere Borough Council and vice-chair of Hertfordshire Growth Board.
A Sky News report also claims the development would be powered by 100% renewable energy, and represents a new generation of ‘green’ data centres. However, electricity only accounts for part of the footprint associated with this type of data storage facility. Water use – and the impact on local supplies – is another huge point of contention for critics of Britain’s current rapid digital expansion.
A recent survey of UK voters, commissioned by Beyond Fossil Fuels and conducted by Savanta, revealed widespread concern over the number of data centres being green-lit across Britain. 88% of respondents want full transparency regarding environmental impact to be required by law, and 82% want the government to introduce criteria controlling how energy is prioritised across different user sectors during peak demand periods. Healthcare and defence, alongside housing and residential, agricultural and food should take precedent, limiting Big Tech’s ability to dominate usage.
Image: İsmail Enes Ayhan / Unsplash
More on Data Management:
Blackpool’s new smart traffic system wins sustainable tech award
British public does not want data centre expansion at any cost
Leave a Reply