AI data centre plan unveiled

HUNDREDS of high skilled jobs could be created near Annan in the next few years if a proposed high-performance data centre is given the go ahead.

CX Technology Campus have a vision to transform land to the north of the former Chapelcross nuclear power station site into a world-leading data centre-led technology campus.

Initial plans were on show at a consultation event in Annan this week.

The 57 hectare campus, which if all goes well could be operational by 2030, will deliver a series of hyperscale, AI-enabled data centres designed to support advanced computing workloads, including machine learning, data processing and cloud services.

It will also include a training and skills hub, energy infrastructure, light industrial and innovation space and landscaping.

These facilities require high levels of power, cooling and connectivity. CX Technology Campus can provide all three at scale, supported by existing infrastructure and available land.

A number of roles in construction would be created during the build phase. And once operational high quality positions in operations

maintenance, engineering and site management will need to be filled.

Local people will be given help to access careers in digital technology and energy, while work for suppliers in the region will be available. A fund to support school and community initiatives will also be created.

David Young is the director of engineering and design at CX.

He explained that this next phase of work would ensure Chapelcross continues to remain a big employer for decades to come and deliver long term benefits to the area.

He said: “The primary focus is an AI enabled data centre buildings. We don’t know how many yet, that will be determined later.

“We want to get the story across really. Chapelcross is a significant piece of national infrastructure.

“It’s all about trying to make the public aware that we want to take Chapelcross into the next generation really.”

Further consultation events are planned at Creca Village Hall on Tuesday June 16, 5 pm to 7 pm, and at Victoria Halls, Annan, on Wednesday June 17, 4 pm to 7 pm.

You can also learn more online at cxtechnologycampus.co.uk