An outline planning application for a data centre in North Weald Bassett was deferred last week at a planning committee meeting for Epping Forest District Council.
The application proposes demolition of existing structures on the site, comprised of gate security and fire station buildings, in order to make way for a data centre campus, with up to two data buildings, and separate offices, the proposal would cover up to 77,000 sq m, and would require backup generators, energy storage, new security facilities, electricity substations, alongside car parking and internal roads.
The proposal is only an outline application, with all matters reserved except for access, and was initially recommended for approval subject to a Section 106 agreement in December of 2025, with eight members in favour and only one against, however a letter from Leigh Day Solicitors, on behalf of Foxglove, sought clarification on a number of points in the proposal, including its lack of an effective climate change mitigation plan
At the most recent meeting last week, the proposal was deferred to officers for determination, Cllr Steven Heather said: “Following legal advice, there is no part of the proposal that requires a members signoff”.
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