Kao Data begins £350m data centre project in Stockport

Kao Data has announced the commencement of construction on its GBP £350 million data centre in Stockport, Greater Manchester.

The project, which is regarded as Critical National Infrastructure by the UK Government, marks a significant development in the UK's digital landscape. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham and Stockport Council Leader Cllr Mark Hunter were present to witness the start of demolition on the site, a former industrial complex, where the new data centre is expected to become operational by 2026.

The new data centre is designed to host advanced computing technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud workloads, across an industrial-scale facility measuring 25,900 square metres. The centre aims to establish new benchmarks for sustainability by utilising 100% certified renewable energy, enhancing Manchester's status as a notable hub for digital infrastructure and innovation.

Once completed, the facility is expected to provide substantial computing capabilities to regional and international organisations and create high-value employment opportunities in fields such as construction, engineering, and operations. With increased capacity, tech businesses in the region will have the necessary resources to expand, potentially generating additional jobs within the digital sector.

Andy Burnham remarked, "As we continue our mission to ensure world-class digital infrastructure for the region, this new data centre will play a pivotal part in our fast-growing and diverse technology ecosystem, reinforcing our position as a global leader in AI and data centre capacity."

He also highlighted the role of the data centre in educational outreach, stating, "This data centre can also raise aspirations and opportunities for young people, providing a window on the GM economy that they've never had before." Burnham expressed interest in Kao Data's plans to work with educational institutions to support technical career pathways.

Doug Loewe, CEO of Kao Data, stated, "Beginning the development stage of our new data centre marks an important milestone, not only for Kao Data, but for technology in Stockport and Greater Manchester. The city region is becoming an increasingly strategic location for digital infrastructure investment, and our new facility - the largest and most sustainable in the north of England - further reinforces Greater Manchester's position as a digital and economic powerhouse."

Cllr Mark Hunter commented on the development's significance for the local economy: "It's a fantastic opportunity for Stockport to attract businesses like Kao Data to come and be based in the borough, with all the extra job opportunities and support for growing our local economy that comes with them."

He added, "It's also a testament to all of the good work and investment in the borough that the Council has led on - with good support from Andy Burnham as GM Mayor - that digital and tech businesses recognise the potential of Stockport as a key location for their growth and further success."

By the time the data centre becomes operational, Greater Manchester is anticipated to solidify itself as one of the top computing and technology centres in the UK and Europe. This growth will be supported by strategic advantages such as cutting-edge connectivity, a robust industrial power grid, a knowledgeable workforce, and a strong presence of AI start-ups and research communities. Kao Data's facility is expected to be integral to this transformation, aiding the region's competitiveness and appealing to prominent technology enterprises globally.