Microsoft Pushes Ahead With Slough Data Center Despite Local Opposition

Microsoft is reportedly preparing to submit revised plans for a major data center in Slough, UK, as the company continues expanding its infrastructure footprint despite growing local opposition to large-scale data center projects.

The proposed development would sit on the former Langley Business Centre site. The plans come amid wider backlash over Microsoft’s data center developments in the UK, including protests surrounding its Leeds AI data center.

According to the Slough Express, Microsoft could submit the revised application to Slough Borough Council within the next few months.

A previous data center development at the same site received planning approval in 2021, but the permission later expired.

Microsoft plans a six-story facility

The current proposal includes a building around six stories high, along with a dedicated electrical substation and other supporting infrastructure.

Microsoft also plans to include public art and EV-enabled parking. The parking layout would aim to reduce congestion on nearby roads.

However, Slough already faces pressure on its electricity grid, which could complicate further large-scale data center construction in the area.

Local opposition continues

A petition calling for a pause on new data center development in Slough has attracted more than 600 signatures.

Residents have raised concerns about noise, heat, environmental effects, and the pressure additional facilities could place on local infrastructure.

Microsoft says the development would follow environmental requirements and that it plans to carry out environmental, air-quality, and noise assessments as part of the planning process.

The company held a public consultation at Langley Community Centre on September 12 ahead of the expected application.

Once Microsoft submits the plans, Slough Borough Council will begin the formal planning process, including environmental and community scrutiny.

Via Neowin