Microsoft Data Centre Plan Sparks Protest Over Environmental Concerns

Campaigners are protesting against Microsoft's planned data centre in Leeds, which has been granted planning permission despite opposition from over 42,000 people.

The proposed facility would be located on a former power station site and would house three data centre buildings and a warehouse with up to 161,000 sq ft of floorspace.

Critics argue that the development would use large amounts of water and energy, although Microsoft claims it is committed to becoming 'carbon negative' and 'water positive' by 2030.

'I don't think we necessarily need such massive data centres that cause such environmental harm,' said Kate Pearson, a campaigner against the project. 'The area was allowed to re-wild over 32 years, and clearing that site is going to impact species that are rare or at risk to Leeds.'

Microsoft has stated that it would work closely with local authorities throughout the planning process and would match all its energy use with renewable energy in the UK.