Critical Capacity - Data Centres Planning Pipeline: London and the South East
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Critical Capacity - Data Centres Planning Pipeline: London and the South East
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The policy context for data centres
The Government has made clear that modern, fit for purpose data centres are a key foundation of broad-based growth[1] and this is beginning to be translated into policy and reflected in the planning system at the national, regional and in some circumstances at the local level. Although a nationwide matter, London and the wider South East of England are the most maturing regions with data centre growth, particularly within the West London and Slough area, steadily growing since the 1990s 'dotcom' boom[2].
The New London Plan marks a significant shift in planning policy terms, with the supporting evidence base noting data centre development in London having the potential to grow tenfold by 2050. Emerging London Plan Policy is seeking to take a more strategic plan-led approach to future data centre growth which would aim to co-ordinate and integrate new development in line with the critical infrastructure (i.e. access to grid, water, fibre connections) required to power rapidly evolving modern data centre schemes.
Key findings from our ‘Critical Capacity – Data Centres Planning Pipeline: London and the South East’ report
Our report analyses full, hybrid and outline planning applications for data centre developments submitted across London and the South East over the last five years, examining what schemes are coming forward, the key typologies, location and emerging characteristics, and the extent to which the planning pipeline is now translating into actual delivery. The research also explores current and emerging policy levers and designations relevant to the sector, and how this compares with the emerging new policy approach of the most recent spatial planning strategy (at the regional scale) in England i.e., the New London Plan.
Our research shows that:
- The active planning pipeline comprises 56 major schemes totalling approximately 3.17 million sq m GEA.
- 43.3% of pipeline floorspace is located within London.
- One-third of South East pipeline floorspace is located within established Availability Zones.
- 53% of schemes with available power data are co-location facilities.
To find out more about our data centres research and experience advising on data centres, please contact Samuel Brown, Catriona Fraser, Sara Dutfield or Taylor Cherrett.
8 October 2026
