Microsoft Faces Opposition to Reported UK Data Center Plans

Microsoft is reportedly considering plans for a data center near Langley Railway Station in the United Kingdom, with a submission expected in autumn, according to Wccftech.

The proposal comes as the company argues that more data centers are needed “to power the economy of the future.” Microsoft also believes the facilities will play an increasingly important role in people’s lives.

The plans face opposition from members of the public who object to technology companies using large areas of land while competing in the artificial intelligence race. One councillor has argued that Microsoft should focus instead on supporting communities, including by creating parks or planting trees.

The available report also refers to a petition calling for the proposal to be paused, but provides no further details about the petition or its demands. Microsoft’s reported plans and the councillor’s comments form the central points of the dispute.