South Mimms, Hertsmere — A major milestone for Hertsmere Borough Council was achieved last night (23 January 2025) as the Planning Committee granted outline planning permission for DC01UK, Europe’s largest cloud and AI data centre. This landmark development comes just a week after the Government unveiled its AI Opportunities Action Plan, which highlighted the vital role of data centres in supporting the UK’s technological and economic growth.

The state-of-the-art facility, set to be built in South Mimms, represents a £3.75 billion investment in the local economy. The project will create 500 construction jobs, 200 permanent skilled roles, and indirectly support over 10,000 additional jobs across the South East. Once operational, it is projected to generate £21.4 million annually in business rates and approximately £1.1 billion per year in Gross Value Added (GVA).

Cross-Party Support for a Bold Vision
The application received overwhelming approval from members of all three political parties represented in the chamber. However, the drive to secure this transformative project came from the Labour and Liberal Democrat administration, whose leadership ensured the vision was realised and the necessary steps taken to bring the project to fruition.

A Vision for Hertsmere’s Future
Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Chris Myers, Ward Councillor for Furzefield, praised the application, saying:
“This project is more than just a building—it’s a massive investment in Hertsmere’s future. It will strengthen our position as a hub of excellence for technology and innovation, complementing our world-renowned film and TV studios. Importantly, it balances economic growth with sustainability, featuring significant green infrastructure and minimal traffic impact.”

Cllr Myers also highlighted the robust infrastructure improvements included in the plans, such as upgrades to bus routes, new pedestrian crossings, expanded cycle hire schemes, and a commitment to biodiversity gains. He noted that the site’s location in a natural dip, surrounded by existing development, minimises its visual and environmental impact while strengthening green belt boundaries.

Leadership and Collaboration
Cllr Jeremy Newmark, Leader of Hertsmere Borough Council, called the approval a “momentous development” for the borough, stating:
“Hertsmere has cleared the way to becoming the home of a data centre integral to Britain’s future in cutting-edge technology. This project will deliver significant growth, economic benefits, and critical synergies for our thriving local film and TV sector.”

The Government’s AI Opportunities Action Plan, unveiled earlier this month, underscores the transformative potential of projects like DC01UK. The data centre’s location—close to national and international fibre optic routes and the Elstree substation—positions Hertsmere as a strategic player in the UK’s AI and digital economy.

A Sustainable Approach
The landscape-led scheme spans 85 acres, with over half retained as green, open space and a commitment to a 10% biodiversity net gain. The site’s strategic design mitigates environmental impacts while delivering infrastructure upgrades that will benefit the community.

Looking Ahead
As Europe’s largest data centre, DC01UK is set to power the AI revolution while driving local and national economic growth. Hertsmere Borough Council has committed to ongoing engagement with residents as the project progresses, ensuring the development delivers lasting benefits for the borough.

With this decision, Hertsmere cements its status as a forward-thinking, technology-driven community ready to embrace the opportunities of the future.