Developers of data centre near Caernarfon defend plans

Buckinghamshire-based Gwelyfenai Limited is planning a data centre building, back-up generators, plant, equipment, and sub-station at the former Ferodo/Friction Dynamic site at Griffiths Crossing.

The data centre would lead to the creation of around 915 jobs during construction, and 210 operational jobs "for Welsh residents".

But the proposal has been widely opposed by residents, with a petition - 'Menai Data Centre - SAY NO!' - receiving more than 9,400 signatures. You can view the petition here.

The former Ferodo/Friction Dynamics site near Caernarfon (Image: Planning documents)

The developers said they had addressed a number of concerns, and said the data centre would not use water from the Menai Strait and would only discharge "uncontaminated rainwater" into the strait.

They recognised the data centre was a "substantial development" but said it would "secure a viable future for a derelict former industrial site that has remained contaminated and largely unused for many years".

A spokesperson for Canolfan Ddata Menai said: “We recognise the strength of interest in these proposals and it is right that local people have the opportunity to ask questions and express their views.

"We want that discussion to be informed by accurate information about both the development and the measures proposed to minimise its impact.

“A number of the concerns being raised have already been addressed through the Environmental Statement and our ongoing engagement. The development will not abstract water from the Menai strait. The only discharge to the Strait will be uncontaminated rainwater collected through its land drainage system.

"The most likely daily water requirement is around 700,000 litres, which is about the same as a large hotel. Eight hectares of the site will be dedicated to ecological enhancement, while detailed design and landscaping measures will seek to reduce the visual impact of what we recognise is a substantial development.

“The proposals would also secure a viable future for a derelict former industrial site that has remained contaminated and largely unused for many years. They would fund its full remediation, while creating more than 900 jobs for Welsh residents during each year of construction and at least 200 long-term jobs once the centre is operational.

“We have engaged with Liz Saville Roberts and a wide range of local representatives and organisations and have contacted her again to offer further information. We are continuing with our programme of community engagement and will provide information to residents as the application progresses.”