AI data centre projects face community opposition in Tasmania and Devon

In Tasmania, a Greens‑hosted town‑hall in Launceston drew about 150 residents who voiced frustration over the Liberal government’s plan to allow unregulated AI data centres on the island. Participants highlighted inadequate consultation, potential over‑use of water and energy, and the absence of safeguards. A petition calling for a moratorium has gathered more than 7,000 signatures, and the Greens have submitted a proposal for a parliamentary inquiry into the projects.

In the United Kingdom’s South West, British renewable‑energy firm Xlinks has outlined a proposal for an 850‑acre AI data centre campus in Devon, estimated at £13 billion and promising 650‑1,200 permanent jobs. Local residents and environmental groups have raised concerns about the facility’s water consumption, noise pollution and the choice of a rural site. Xlinks has opened a consultation period from 14 July to 11 August, but no formal planning application has been lodged, and some community meetings have been postponed, fueling further opposition.