Deadline extended for public comments Auchtertool data centre

The centre would be situated in the countryside near Auchtertool. <i>(Image: Fife Council)</i>
The centre would be situated in the countryside near Auchtertool. (Image: Fife Council)
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AN EXTENSION has been made for public comments to be made regarding a proposed AI data centre in Auchtertool.

The deadline for the public to officially make their voice heard on the plans was previously July 2 but has now been extended until July 24.

If approved, the development would introduce industrial-scale buildings up to 35 metres high in the countryside, on a site the size of 100 football pitches.

The planning application has attracted national attention and has now attracted around 15,000 opposition signatures across two petitions.

While developers, Cato, say it would be a "state-of-the-art centre, those objecting cite concerns around noise pollution and water supply issues. It's also understood that it would use the equivalent energy of half of Scotland’s households.

The application was submitted at the same time as others across Scotland, including in the Borders and Larbert.

It comes as the UK's use of AI is increasing and demand surges. However, many think the risks outweigh the benefits.

Last week, MSP Mark Ruskell said Fife Council needed “urgent guidance” from the Scottish Government on AI data centres. He said that many local authorities had been "left to navigate issues in the dark".

First Minister John Swinney addressed the matter at Holyrood, when asked by Green party co-leader Gillian Mackay whether his administration will “continue to allow a free-for-all on hyperscale data centres”.

He said he was giving "active consideration" to whether the Scottish Government should provide planning guidance.

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