Plans for a £1.3 billion AI data centre in Wickford, Essex, have received outline planning approval, marking a major step in the UK’s growing digital infrastructure drive. The seven-year development, led by Caineal, will rise alongside the A127 and Old Nevendon Road, positioning Basildon as a key player in the UK’s AI revolution.

The site will feature 27,000 square metres of data halls and office space across multiple levels, including two IT floors and three office levels above. A 4,500 square metre substation, supported by underground cabling, will power the high-capacity facility. Around £500 million is allocated to construction and another £500 million to state-of-the-art computer hardware.

The project is expected to support 600 full-time construction jobs annually and create around 120 permanent skilled roles once operational.

In response to environmental concerns raised during planning, Caineal has pledged to create a 34.5-acre nature reserve expanding the Nevendon Wetlands. A closed-loop water cooling system will also cut water usage—reflecting the industry’s push toward more sustainable infrastructure.

Councillor Jessica Power, cabinet member for jobs and skills, said the development would put Basildon “at the heart of the UK’s AI revolution.” The scheme includes contributions to education, job training and sustainable transport, supporting local growth and skills development.

The Wickford project joins a wave of large-scale UK data centre investments. In the Humber region, a £3 billion AI campus has secured approval for 386MW of IT power. Near London, Foxboro Business Park is set for expansion, while in Scotland, the £3.9 billion Ravenscraig project will harness local renewables for data operations. Lincolnshire is preparing for a £7.5 billion AI campus capable of generating nearly 50MW on-site.

Amazon Web Services has also committed £8 billion over five years to UK AI and cloud infrastructure. These initiatives align with government-backed AI Growth Zones, designed to streamline approvals and boost energy access.

Led by Arc MC Architects and CPA Consulting Engineers, the Essex scheme is ready to move forward once final planning conditions are met. Its strategic location, environmental commitments and local investment promise to make it a cornerstone of the UK’s AI infrastructure ambitions.

As the UK balances rapid digital expansion with environmental and social responsibility, projects like Wickford’s show how sustainable, community-focused innovation can take root at scale.

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