Almost 400 objections lodged against data centre plans near Norwich
A petition against the A140 development has also passed 19,000 signatures
Almost 400 objections have been lodged against controversial plans for a huge data centre at the edge of Norwich.
Locals have claimed the proposals for land off the A140 near Keswick, three miles from the city centre, could have “irreversible consequences” for South Norfolk.
Campaigners say the plans risk further industrialisation of an important gateway to Norwich.
Norwich Apex Ltd submitted plans for the two-storey, 150MW facility at the beginning of October.
Since then, 397 objections have been lodged with South Norfolk Council, alongside just one letter of support.
Much of the opposition is centred on the effect it could have on the environment and wildlife, including at the nearby Marston Marshes, which is 600 metres away.
One objector said: “I am deeply concerned about the scale of this development and its potentially irreversible consequences for the surrounding communities, public health, air quality, countryside and environment.
“I believe this could be one of the most consequential planning decisions affecting this part of Norfolk for decades.”
Another added: “Marston Marshes is a beautiful area which is full of wildlife, including otters and water voles.
“The damage this would cause with the endless lights, noise and heat can only be devastating to the area.”
Another objector said: “A development of this size, situated just metres from a valuable wildlife habitat, risks causing lasting harm to the natural environment.
“The approach to historic Norwich should be something that reflects the beauty and character of Norfolk, not a vast industrial building that dominates the landscape and replaces the area’s natural character with a wall of concrete and infrastructure.”
Concerns have also been raised about the noise which could be emitted from the facility.
Data centres can generate a hum due to the amount of power the computer servers and cooling systems use.
But the developer, Norwich Apex Ltd, says the facility will operate within the existing background noise levels which are already created in the area.
The proposals have already been opposed by broadcaster Jake Humphrey, who lives nearby, Daniel Elmer, Conservative leader of South Norfolk Council, and Ben Goldsborough, Labour MP for South Norfolk.
A petition opposing the development now has more than 19,000 signatures.