UK communities protest new data centre projects in London and Norfolk

Campaigners in east London are opposing a proposed 5,200‑square‑metre datacentre on Brick Lane, which would house high‑frequency trading equipment and consume up to 5.2 MW of power. Residents say the development would worsen the borough’s severe housing crisis and generate noise, and they urge the site to be used for affordable homes instead. Tower Hamlets council rejected the plan last year, and the decision has been referred to the government for a final ruling by 17 August.

In Norfolk, a petition signed by nearly 5,000 people challenges the Norwich Apex data centre, a 150 MW facility to be built on a seven‑acre business park near the River Yare valley and the protected Marston Marsh. Local villagers cite concerns about energy and water use, environmental impact and the proximity to the nature site. The developer argues the centre will be powered by green energy and will not adversely affect nearby residents.