Microsoft Wants Another Data Centre Because Apparently the Cloud Needs More Buildings

Microsoft is preparing to submit plan for a new data centre in Slough later this autumn, with the proposed development planned for the former Langley Business Centre on Station Road, near Langley and Windsor College. The site has remained vacant since December 2023. Slough Borough Council had previously granted outline approval for a data centre at the location in 2021, but that application has since lapsed. Microsoft latest proposal comes amid growing debate over the rapid expansion of data centres in Slough. Residents have raised concerns about potential noise, heat generated by the facilities and possible effects on local communities. The technology giant recently held a public consultation at Langley Community Centre, giving residents an opportunity to view the proposals and raise questions about the planned development. According to documents released ahead of the consultation, Microsoft said data centres have become an important part of modern life, supporting services ranging from social media and contactless payments to remote working. The proposed facility would be approximately 15 metres high, which Microsoft described as being similar in height to a six storey office building. The plans also include a substation and other supporting infrastructure, while locally designed public art is being proposed as part of the development. Microsoft said it aims to be a good neighbour and create a positive impact in communities where its data centres are located. However, opposition to further data centre development in Slough has also been growing. A petition calling on Slough Borough Council to pause new data centre projects has attracted around 600 signatures, with campaigners calling for an independent assessment of their cumulative impact before further developments are approved. Microsoft consultation documents state that an environmental assessment is being undertaken. The assessment will examine potential effects relating to air quality, noise, climate, townscape and daylight. The new proposal therefore places Slough continuing transformation into a major data infrastructure hub alongside questions about how such developments can be balanced with local environmental and community concerns. The outcome will depend on the detailed planning application, the finding of the environmental assessment and the council consideration of the proposal.