'Wrong location' for proposed Larbert data centre - Meghan Gallacher MSP
Over the last few weeks, many local residents have contacted me to share their concerns about the proposed AI data centre in Larbert. This is one of the largest planning applications our area has seen in recent years, and it is only right that people can scrutinise the plans and have their voices heard.
Investment has an important role to play in creating jobs and supporting economic growth, and we should welcome businesses that want to invest in the Falkirk area. However, developments of this scale must earn public confidence and demonstrate that they can be delivered without unacceptable consequences for the communities they affect.
The proposed site is located close to existing homes, Forth Valley Royal Hospital, a local nursery and a care home. Residents have understandably raised concerns about the impact such a development could have on their daily lives, including increased traffic, noise, air quality and the visual impact on the surrounding area.
These are legitimate concerns, and people who live and work in Larbert deserve clear, evidence-based answers about how a development of this scale would affect their community.
A recurring concern has been the impact that large AI data centres can have on local infrastructure, particularly energy and water supplies. These facilities require substantial amounts of electricity and water to operate. Local people should not be expected to bear additional pressure on essential infrastructure or public services to accommodate a commercial development. It is for the developer to demonstrate that existing capacity is sufficient and that the project can proceed without adversely affecting residents, businesses or vital public services.
Throughout this process, I have been clear that local people must remain at the heart of decision-making. Public consultation should be genuine and meaningful, not simply a box-ticking exercise.
Developers must engage openly with residents, respond fully to the concerns that have been raised and demonstrate that every reasonable step has been taken to minimise disruption and mitigate the impact on the local community. This proposal also highlights the need for clearer national guidance. AI data centres represent a relatively new type of development, yet there are now 24 proposed applications across Scotland.
The Scottish Government must provide local authorities with a robust planning framework that prevents a free-for-all and ensures these facilities are located in appropriate places, with proper consideration given to infrastructure capacity and the interests of local communities.
As your MSP, my responsibility is to represent the interests of the people who live and work in our area. Having listened carefully to residents and considered the information available, I do not believe this is the right development in the correct location. I therefore oppose the proposed AI data centre in Larbert and will continue to stand with local residents throughout the planning process to to ensure their voices are heard and their concerns are properly considered.