Newham’s Vision: The Game-Changing Hyper-Scale Data Centre Set to Heat 13,000 Homes

The proposal for the construction of the first hyper-scale data centre in Newham has been recommended for approval. This data centre, along with its accompanying plant building and energy centre, is planned to be situated on the grounds of a former scrap metal recycling facility in Bidder Street, Canning Town. If approved, the project aims to bring about significant public benefits.

One of the most notable benefits is the utilisation of the energy generated by the data centre to provide heat for nearly 13,000 homes. Additionally, the plan includes the creation of a new walkway along the River Lea, offering a new route for pedestrians and cyclists to enjoy.

The proposed data centre and plant building are designed to reach a towering height of 72.3 meters, while the energy centre will stand at 32.4 meters. The data centre will be comprised of multiple stacked floors, each housing expansive data halls filled with neatly arranged server racks. In addition to the data halls, the building will feature a reception area, staff cafe, breakout space, and office facilities.

The cooling corridors within the data centre will play a crucial role in maintaining optimal temperatures for the server racks, effectively managing the heat generated by the equipment. The excess heat will be ingeniously reclaimed and channelled back into the energy centre, ensuring an efficient use of resources.

Meanwhile, the energy centre will be dedicated to powering the data centre and harnessing any surplus heat, which can then be repurposed to provide warmth to numerous nearby homes. This innovative approach underscores the commitment to sustainability and resource optimisation.

The developer’s agent emphasised in a planning statement that the proposed plans represent a significant opportunity for the borough of Newham. They highlighted the potential for Newham to become a ‘catalyst’ for the continued growth of the data sector. The development is expected to initially create 130 jobs, with the potential to increase this number to 290.

0In order to ensure that the development brings public benefits, the Newham Council has requested IDXS to contribute £4.08 million through a Section 106 agreement. This financial contribution will support the council’s data economy programme, a collaborative initiative involving organizations such as Bloomberg, Microsoft, and the Open Data Institute. The program aims to create career opportunities for local residents and equip them with valuable data skills.

Additionally, a portion of the funds will be allocated to enhancing Canning Town Station and facilitating the delivery of the Mayer Parry Bridge. The bridge will serve as a vital connection between Newham and the neighbouring borough of Tower Hamlets and is scheduled to be unveiled in March 2025.