Sadiq Khan’s Data Centre Plans Spark Fresh Concern for Havering’s Green Belt.

Fresh concerns are likely to be raised in Havering after reports that London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan has paved the way for more data centres to be considered on parts of London’s Green Belt, a move that could have implications for boroughs already facing controversial development proposals.

The changes form part of the Mayor’s wider ambition to increase London’s digital infrastructure and support the growing demand for data centres driven by artificial intelligence and cloud computing. Reports indicate the revised planning approach could make it easier for certain data centre proposals to be considered on some Green Belt land, including land described in Government planning policy as “grey belt”, where relevant planning criteria are met.

For many people in Havering, however, the announcement is likely to reignite concerns surrounding the proposed data centre development on Green Belt land in North Ockendon.

The proposal has attracted significant opposition, with campaigners and many residents arguing that the site forms an important part of Havering’s Green Belt, helping to prevent urban sprawl, support wildlife and preserve the borough’s rural character. Objectors have also raised concerns about the potential impact on the landscape, local roads, infrastructure and biodiversity.

Many campaigners believe Havering has already accommodated substantial development in recent years and argue that the borough’s remaining Green Belt should be protected for future generations.

Campaigners also argue that development on Green Belt land results in the permanent loss of open countryside and have urged planning authorities to protect Havering’s remaining green spaces.

It is important to note that the Mayor’s latest planning changes do not automatically grant planning permission for data centres on Green Belt land. Individual applications must still go through the planning process and be determined in accordance with planning law and relevant planning policies.

Nevertheless, campaigners in Havering are likely to view the announcement as another challenge in their efforts to protect the borough’s Green Belt.

With campaigners continuing to oppose the proposed North Ockendon development, many residents will now be watching closely to see what, if any, impact the Mayor’s latest planning direction could have on future data centre proposals in Havering.

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