The environmental cost of London's data centre boom

With 99 data centres already built, London accounts for more than 80 per cent of the UK's data centre capacity¹ and is expected to see significant further growth, with around 26 new facilities² currently planned or progressing through the planning system.

Tomorrow, the London Assembly Environment Committee will examine the environmental impacts of data centres in London, including concerns around energy demand, water use, air quality, noise, biodiversity and the impact on local communities. Members will also explore how London can balance the growth of digital infrastructure with environmental sustainability and local infrastructure capacity.

The guests are:

Panel 1 (Community Groups and Campaigns 14:00 – 14:55pm)

• Oliver Hayes, Head of Campaigns, Global Action Plan
• Olivia Law-Zygadlo, Park Royal resident campaign lead
• Karen Fitzgerald, North Ockendon resident and lead campaigner for “No to East Havering Data Centre”

Panel 2 (Utilities and academics 15:00 – 16:00pm)

• Charlotte Wood, London Area director, Environment Agency,
• Jon Chappell, Deputy Director, Water UK,
• Bob Burgoyne, Associate Director, Carbon Trust,
• Rory Murphy, Research Associate, University of Exeter

The meeting will take place in the Chamber at City Hall on Thursday 12 November 2026 at 2pm.

Media and members of the public are invited to attend.

The meeting can also be viewed LIVE or later via webcast or YouTube.

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