A data centre is a specialised facility that houses computer systems and related equipment used to store, process, and distribute digital data. It is the essential physical infrastructure that powers the services that people use every day.  They support activities such as: online banking, social media, email services, video streaming, healthcare systems, banking and financial services, government services, public transport systems, artificial intelligence technologies, and scientific research.

The UK Government states that data centres “underpin almost all economic activity and innovation, including the development of AI and other technology, public service delivery, and how we interact with one another.” In fact, this very website is hosted in a data centre, which your computer is connecting to in order to display it! As more services move online and the use of artificial intelligence continues to grow, the demand for secure and resilient digital infrastructure is increasing rapidly. Buckinghamshire Council’s emerging Local Plan recognises the role that modern economy sectors, including data centres, can play in supporting economic growth, technological innovation and future business investment within the county.

Below: A computer-generated image of one of the data centre buildings viewed from within the site. The boundary of the site will be lined with extensive trees and planting.

Why Are More Data Centres Needed?

The UK Government has identified data centres as Critical National Infrastructure because they support economic growth, public services and national resilience. Government forecasts indicate that the UK will require a significant increase in data centre capacity over the coming years to support emerging technologies, including AI. Without investment in new digital infrastructure, the UK risks falling behind other countries competing for technology investment and innovation.