Data centre plans under debate

PLANS: Illustration of the proposed technology hub near Hurlford (Image: ILI Group)

Plans for an artificial intelligence centre in Ayrshire, predicted to be “one of the largest on earth”, has come under debate with environmental and job concerns arising.

Lanarkshire-based Intelligent Land Investments (ILI) Group has proposed the technology hub to be built near HMP Kilmarnock, as one of three “hyperscale” Scotland sites.

Their project, named The Stoics, a £15 billion Green Digital Network for the central belt, has been criticised with regards to its impact on the surrounding area and job growth.

Lisa Beacham, a student from Hurlford, was aware of the plan’s early stages and is worried about the site’s water usage.

She said: “The site proposal is that it would be powered at 540MW, which would require millions of litres of water a day.

“Water is a global commodity and we are currently facing global water bankruptcy, according to the UN. Yet we’ll have a site that is using a huge amount, and due to residue (from the centre) the water used there cannot easily be recirculated.”

Speaking at a consultation in Kilmarnock, ILI’s Greig Templeton believes the company’s track record of “positive community benefits” can be delivered.

Templeton argued recent projects have demonstrated a commitment to the community and the creation of jobs.

While 120 to 150 jobs are estimated to become available for the hub, East Ayrshire locals have their doubts about the long term.

Cheryl Rowland, also from Hurlford, said: “They are talking about something that will be here for 40 or 50 years.

“Would they arrange education upskilling, to bring local people through to help them grow into jobs here, or will the jobs all be people coming into the area?

The data centre is one of the estimated 17 in Scotland that currently sit at various stages of planning.

Other areas of Scotland proposed for centre constructions include North Lanarkshire and Fife.