Data Centre Planning Applications Reach Record High in England and Wales in 2025
A surge in data centre planning applications has been observed across England and Wales in 2025, with more than 60 applications submitted, marking a 63% increase from the previous year.
Rising Demand for AI and Cloud Compute Driving Growth
Leading tech companies such as Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI are heavily investing in expanding their data centre infrastructure to meet the growing demand for AI and cloud computing services. The UK is a key target for new data centre developments, fueled by the race to dominate the AI market.
Diverse Range of Sites Targeted for Data Centre Development
Developers are exploring innovative approaches by repurposing existing brownfield assets for data centre projects. From abandoned hotels and coal mines to old power stations, a wide range of unconventional sites are being considered for new data centre installations. This trend indicates a shift towards more creative and sustainable development practices in the industry.
Geographical Spread of Proposals
While the South East remains a hotspot for data centre capacity due to connectivity and infrastructure advantages, there is a noticeable spread of proposals in regions like Wales, the East Midlands, North West, and Yorkshire. Developers are venturing beyond traditional hubs in search of suitable land and power resources, reflecting the growing diversity in the data centre market.
Overall, the record high number of data centre planning applications in 2025 highlights the industry’s rapid growth and evolving landscape, driven by the increasing demand for AI and cloud computing services.
