Falkirk Council to hold hearing on controversial AI data centre plans

Falkirk Council has scheduled a special planning committee meeting to address a controversial application by Apatura to construct a 300MW hyperscale AI data centre near Glenbervie Business Park. The proposal has faced significant public opposition, with more than 7,000 formal objections submitted by residents and campaign groups such as ‘Say No to Larbert Data Centre’.

Opponents have raised concerns regarding potential noise, pollution, and increased traffic, arguing that the site is unsuitable due to its proximity to a care home, a major hospital, and residential areas. Conversely, developers claim the facility will drive investment and create approximately 500 long-term, high-paying local jobs. The hearing will allow councillors to question both the developers and representatives of the objecting residents.