More details of planned AI data campus in Northumberland emerge

An artistic rendering of a typical data centre design for conceptual purposes
-Credit:Copyright Unknown


Plans to create an AI data centre in Northumberland are taking shape ahead of a huge investment in the county.

American investment firm Blackstone, alongside its data subsidiary QTS, plan to build a series of AI data centres on the land at Cambois near Blyth, which was previously earmarked for a gigafactory producing electric car batteries. The site, also known as Northumberland Energy Park Phase 3 or NEP 3, will now provide the necessary computing power needed to drive the booming artificial intelligence sector.

Plans have now appeared on Northumberland County Council's planning portal seeking to 'scope opinion' on the development of the site. A lengthy report explains that the data centre campus would comprise of "up to" ten data centre buildings covering up to 540,00 square metres.

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The final number of employees is yet to be finalised, but report claims the proposed development is estimated to generate approximately 1,600 direct jobs - including 1,200 long-term construction jobs. Furthermore, it is anticipated that an additional 2,700-plus indirect jobs will also be created.

Speaking about the plans for a new AI data centre in Northumberland, Mohammad S A A Alothman, founder and CEO of AI Tech Solutions, said: "The proposition for the construction of AI data centres in Cameroon, such as the one that is being planned at Cambois is an important chapter in the development of AI related facilities.

"These centres will become increasingly relevant in advancing technology and businesses, as AI requires a lot of computing power.

"It is interesting how Northumberland is converting land meant for a gigafactory into an AI facility, more so, an advanced studio. This is a prudent change of strategy given the quick pace of development in technology."

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It is expected that the development will be built out in phases across a period of nine years. Construction is expected to start in 2025, once outline planning permission has been granted.

Coun Glen Sanderson, the leader of Northumberland County Council, welcomed the publication of new details.

He said: "This is really welcome news. This project is set to bring a multi-billion pound inward investment into the county, one of the largest in the UK. It will open the door to new opportunities for so many people and it's important momentum is kept up.

"We're pleased to receive this initial planning report, following a collaborative approach between Blackstone / QTS and the council – it comes just a few months after the land was purchased by our partners, and ahead of receiving a proposed formal planning application later this year."

As part of the deal that saw Blackstone purchase the site, £110 million will be pumped into the council's coffers to fund business investments across the county. The £110 million was agreed as part of a deal that saw the council drop the previous buy-back agreement that was on the land.