Microsoft recently secured unanimous approval from Leeds City Council for its £4 billion initiative to establish a data hub on a 65-acre site. This prime location is situated on the north-east bank of the River Aire.
Details of the Leeds Data Hub Initiative
The proposed facility will include three data centre buildings, covering approximately 424,000 square feet. In addition to the data centres, the project encompasses essential power, water, and energy infrastructure.
Industrial Space and Land Deal
Outline consent has also been granted for an additional 160,000 square feet of industrial space, which will remain under the ownership of Harworth Group. This significant approval supports a land deal valued at £107 million, originally agreed upon in 2024, where £51.2 million has already been paid. The remaining £53.2 million will be settled upon completion of the second phase of development.
Employment Opportunities
- Construction is anticipated to generate around 740 jobs over a six-year period.
- Once operational, the campus will provide more than 350 jobs in various roles.
Project Team and Timeline
The project team includes notable architect firm TTSP, along with engineering consultants HDR and Ramboll. According to Lynda Shillaw, Chief Executive of Harworth Group, securing the planning consent is a significant step towards finalizing the sale of Plot 2 and highlights their productive collaboration with Microsoft.
Construction work at the site is expected to commence within the next 12 to 18 months.
