Residents of the small Scottish village of Auchtertool, Fife, have launched a significant campaign to oppose plans for a large-scale data centre development on their doorstep. The proposed project, known as the Cato data centre, would occupy a site spanning more than 100 football pitches, situated adjacent to a community of approximately 200 homes. The scale of the development has prompted over 1,600 formal objections, with locals displaying protest banners throughout the village to voice their opposition.
The primary concerns raised by the community include potential noise and light pollution, flood risks, and the overall environmental impact on the surrounding rural area. While many residents emphasize that they are not opposed to the development of data centres in principle, they argue that the proposed location is unsuitable due to its proximity to a small residential population. The campaign has gained momentum, with local representatives planning to demonstrate at Holyrood in September alongside other Scottish communities facing similar infrastructure proposals.
Community Concerns and Regulatory Scrutiny
For many in Auchtertool, the project represents a threat to the quiet, rural lifestyle they chose. Residents have expressed frustration over the perceived lack of transparency regarding the development's scale and potential height. Beyond the immediate impact on their daily lives, some homeowners have raised concerns about the potential effect on property values and the welfare of local animals. Specifically, horse owners living near the proposed boundary have highlighted the potential for acoustic disturbance from 24/7 cooling systems and emergency generator testing, which they fear could negatively affect their high-performance animals.
The project has also drawn attention to the regulatory process surrounding large-scale infrastructure. While Fife Council initially indicated that a full
Developer Response and Economic Projections
The developer, ILI Group, has defended the project, stating that it has already conducted technical assessments regarding noise, air quality, and ecology. Mark Wilson, CEO of ILI Group, maintained that the facility can operate within acceptable limits and welcomed the requirement for a full environmental impact assessment. He urged the public to evaluate the proposal based on its specific design and regulatory standards rather than comparing it to other international projects.
The company has also highlighted the potential economic benefits for the region. According to independent analysis commissioned by the developer, the project could support approximately 1,450 job-years during the construction phase and create over 260 jobs in Fife once the facility is operational. ILI Group stated that it remains committed to ongoing engagement with the local community as the environmental assessment process continues, promising to provide evidence-based information to address resident concerns.
