Protesters gather against Norwich data centre plans

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 19 Oct, 14:02 · Archive

Campaigners are protesting outside South Norfolk Council against a proposed 150MW data centre near Keswick.

Campaigners are protesting outside South Norfolk Council's headquarters against Norwich Apex Ltd's proposed 150MW data centre near Keswick. Councillors have been advised to arrive early for a full council meeting and to park towards the rear of the building due to the large number of people expected to attend.

The bid has sparked fierce opposition since being unveiled, with a petition attracting close to 18,000 signatures. Daniel Elmer, Conservative leader of South Norfolk Council, has already stated his opposition. Labour MP Ben Goldsborough and TV star Jake Humphrey have also objected.

Jake Humphrey described the proposals as 'absurd' on Instagram, warning that 'ordinary communities' should not 'quietly pay the price' for development. He said the facility must be 'in the right place' with 'the right scale' and protections agreed before permission is granted. Police said they were 'aware the protest is due to take place' and would 'be monitoring' it. The two-storey data centre would have sufficient capacity to power the equivalent of 50,000 kettles simultaneously if built.

How it is being reported

• Police set to 'monitor' planned protest over controversial bid for huge data centreA protest opposing plans for a huge data centre on the outskirts of Norwich in Keswick is set to take place outside South Norfolk Council's headquarters.Eastern Daily Press · 19 Oct, 13:45
• Police set to 'monitor' planned protest over controversial bid for huge data centreA protest opposing plans for a huge data centre on the outskirts of Norwich in Keswick is set to take place outside South Norfolk Council's headquarters.Norwich Evening News · 19 Oct, 13:45

In this story: South Norfolk Council · Norwich Apex Ltd · Daniel Elmer · Ben Goldsborough · Jake Humphrey · Keswick · Norwich

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