Introduce urgent moratorium on AI Data Centres and BESS outside AI Growth Zones

Introduce: (1) an immediate moratorium on planning approvals for BESS (Battery Energy Storage Systems) and Data Centres outside designated AI Growth Zones; (2) mandatory Rural Impact Assessments conducted at local level; and (3) mandatory comprehensive investigation into financing of all proposals.

We believe robust evaluation is needed as to: (i) the cost-benefit analysis of each BESS/Data Centre; and (ii) all financing, including non-UK-based funds. Proposals outside AI Growth Zones can be highly problematic, because they may seek to evade regulation and Government scrutiny. Rural areas are especially vulnerable. There are reports of farmers being threatened with compulsory purchase. Loss of farmland could endanger UK food security. Irreparable harm may be caused to heritage, landscapes, ecology, public health and wellbeing.

The government has no plans to introduce a moratorium on planning approvals for data centres or BESS projects or introduce mandatory Rural Impact Assessments or mandatory comprehensive investigation into financing of all proposals.

Grid-scale batteries are essential for delivering a decarbonised power sector by 2030 and net zero by 2050. They balance the electricity system at lower cost, maximise the use of renewable generation such as wind and solar, reduce the need for new generation and network upgrades, and provide rapid-response services to maintain system frequency and security of supply from milliseconds to several hours. The Government's Clean Power Plan aims to increase grid-scale battery storage capacity from 8.1GW today to 23-27GW by 2030 in the UK.

Data centres are a critical part of the UK’s digital infrastructure. They underpin everyday services and provide the computing capacity needed for scientific research, advancing innovation, and economic growth. The government has designated data centres as Critical National Infrastructure, reflecting their importance to the UK’s economy and security.

The government recognises that data centre developments and battery facilities can raise concerns for local communities, including in relation to land use and environmental impacts. Data centre proposals inside and outside AI Growth Zones, as well as BESS, remain subject to the same planning scrutiny and regulatory requirements as all other developments. As part of the planning process, decision-makers are required to consider a wide range of relevant factors, including impacts on the environment, heritage assets, landscapes, ecology and local communities.