Zack Polanski calls for data centre freeze in England

Green Party leader Zack Polanski has called for a moratorium on the approval of new data centres in England, citing concerns over their impact on energy and water supplies. Speaking at a proposed site in East London, Polanski argued that the rapidly expanding industry places undue pressure on resources, particularly as parts of the country face drought conditions.

Polanski criticized the 2024 government designation of data centres as critical infrastructure, suggesting the classification is inappropriate when compared to essential services like hospitals and water utilities. He advocated for tougher environmental requirements and increased local community involvement in the planning process. While the Green Party expressed concern that the designation could prioritize data centres over households during water shortages, the government has stated that such facilities would not automatically receive priority during supply pressures.