Why this site has been chosen
Strategic location
The former Freeport site offers an excellent location for high-capacity digital infrastructure, with strong connections to the grid and transport networks.
Grid resilience
The site has direct access to a high-capacity grid connection from the nearby Harburn substation. This provides the level of power essential for data centre operations.
Policy alignment
The proposals support both national and local priorities, including Scotland’s Net Zero targets, ambitions for advanced digital infrastructure, and inclusive economic growth.
Timeline
The following timeline outlines the key milestones for the proposed development, from initial grid connection agreements to operation.
While these dates are estimates and subject to change, they provide an overview of the project's journey and the steps required to bring it to life. We are committed to keeping the community informed as the project progresses.
In June 2025, we secured a formal agreement with the electricity network operator NESO, confirming that the project can connect to the grid.
In parallel with the public consultations, specialist consultants will carry out detailed environmental, technical, and ground condition surveys.
This is where we meet with local residents, community groups, and stakeholders to share plans, answer questions, and gather feedback. This input is helping shape the final design and ensures local voices are heard.
We submit a formal planning application to the relevant authorities, including all technical studies, community feedback, and environmental assessments.
The planning authority reviews the application, considers public comments, and makes a decision on whether the project can go ahead.
We will liaise with local councils, skills providers, and community partners to explore opportunities for local employment, training, and supply chain involvement.
If approved, work begins on preparing the site, installing equipment, and building any necessary infrastructure, such as access roads or cabling.
The build finishes and we begin a testing phase to make sure everything works as designed, meets safety standards, and is ready for operation.
The AI Data Campus becomes fully operational, providing secure, high-capacity digital infrastructure with a focus on renewables.