Basildon councillors back building of data centre in Green Belt

Wickford is to become home to a large data centre.
Basildon councillors have approved the reported £1 billion project in the Green Belt near the A127 and Old Nevendon Road.
Wickford Town Council noted that the scheme contradicted Green Belt policy and was concerned about urban sprawl between Wickford and Basildon, traffic congestion and noise and light pollution. However, planning officers said these issues had all been addressed in their report.
The developer, Caineal, is proposing to establish a nature reserve next to the site, while the borough council’s economic development team claimed the centre would attract further hi-tech businesses.
Councillors gave outline planning permission on Thursday, September 25.