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Two huge data centres given green light as part of Dagenham's 'digital revolution'

Digital revolution: the borough is swapping Fords and factories for films and digital technology
Digital revolution: the borough is swapping Fords and factories for films and digital technology

Two huge data centres have been given the green light as part of plans for a “digital revolution” in an east London borough famous for its factories.

Thousands of jobs are set to be created after Barking and Dagenham Council gave permission for two 212 metre-long buildings near Dagenham East station.

The development will house large-scale data hosting infrastructure, which is essential for emerging technological industries including cloud computing and digital media.

Council leader Darren Rodwell said: “Giving the green light to these two huge data centres will mean Barking and Dagenham will be able to power London’s digital led economy well into the 21st century.

“These developments will bring thousands of jobs for local people at all levels - from construction workers and carpenters to set designers and film and TV producers.

He added: “It’s another sign that Barking and Dagenham is booming.”

Darren Rodwell, leader of Barking & Dagenham council, said the borough is 'booming' (Lucy Young)
Darren Rodwell, leader of Barking & Dagenham council, said the borough is 'booming' (Lucy Young)

NTT Communications was initially given consent to build the data centres in July, before the decision was referred to the Greater London Authority.

Deputy mayor Jules Pipe handed the final decision back to the council, which has now granted the firm permission to begin construction.

Pat Hayes, Managing Director of Be First, Barking and Dagenham Council’s regeneration company, said: “The borough used to be famous for Fords and factories but with these new data centres and studios, we will soon be famous for films, media and digital technology.”

The data centres will be built yards from the site earmarked for London's largest film studios
The data centres will be built yards from the site earmarked for London's largest film studios

The data centres are set to be built yards away from the site proposed for London’s largest film studios . Pharmaceutical giant Sanofi operated there until 2009.

James Kingdom, Head of Alternatives Research at global investment firm JLL, said: “Data centres are an essential form of infrastructure to help support the growing digitalisation of how we live and work.

“The growth of new commercial areas means that East London is a key area in delivering new supply and helping the capital to remain a global leader in data centre delivery.”