Cessnock Council opposes $3.7 billion Kurri Kurri data centre

Cessnock City Council has unanimously voted to lodge a formal objection to a proposed $3.7 billion data centre in Kurri Kurri. The project, spearheaded by technology infrastructure company AirTrunk, is planned for the former Hydro Aluminium smelter site on Hart Road, Loxford.

Councillors raised concerns regarding the facility’s potential impact on nearby residents, specifically citing noise, increased traffic, high electricity consumption, and the development’s proximity to residential areas. The facility is expected to have an electricity capacity of approximately 550 megawatts and would feature a two-storey building covering more than 44,000 square metres.

AirTrunk has proposed a community benefits package valued at over $37 million, which includes contributions to local infrastructure and sporting facilities. The company also outlined plans for a community battery and an energy program offering eligible nearby households a $200 annual electricity bill deduction. AirTrunk maintains the facility will be more than 500 metres from the nearest residence and expects the project to generate over 350 ongoing jobs.