Packed Room, Rising Anger Data Centre Meeting Leaves Residents Frustrated.

A consultation meeting held at Havering Town Hall on Wednesday evening over plans for a major data centre in North Ockendon has sparked frustration among residents, with concerns raised about how the session was organised and delivered.

The proposed development, which could see one of Europe’s largest data centres built on green belt land, has already generated significant local interest. However, those who attended the meeting told the Havering Daily they were left unhappy with the experience.

Residents described the room as too small for the level of interest in the project and raised concerns about how the meeting was managed. Some also expressed dissatisfaction with how information was presented and discussed during the session.

Local blogger Chris Purnell said: “Panel members huddled dfensively behind computer screens instead of standing and clearly addressing the meeting.”

His comments reflect wider frustration from attendees, many of whom felt the format of the meeting did not match the scale and importance of the proposal being discussed.

The consultation process itself is now set to face a legal challenge, with an alliance group preparing to pursue a judicial review. Concerns have been raised about the 28 day consultation period, with some residents arguing that it is not sufficient given the complexity and scale of the plans.

People living near the proposed site have also voiced concerns about the potential impact on the character of North Ockendon, as well as the effect on green belt land and local wildlife.

The council has not yet responded to the concerns raised following the meeting.

With strong feelings on all sides and a potential legal challenge ahead, the future of the consultation process and the proposed development remains under close scrutiny.

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