Seventh Macquarie Park data centre sparks local outrage, council sidelined

Macquarie Park’s soon-to-be seventh data centre has sidestepped local council approval and prompted outrage from residents who say it’s not a fair trade. Data centres are increasingly facing public backlash, with many common complaints including noise, poor aesthetics, environmental impacts and excessive resource use. The development application for the latest Macquarie Park data centre outlines plans for public green space around two, nine storey towers that will loom over the nearby metro station and cost the operator, NextDC a whopping $1.4b to build. The towers will have a combined floor space of 46,935 sqm with two retail outlets and office space on the lower levels of one of the buildings. MORE: Aus AI boom putting your home at risk Artist’s rendition of the aerial perspective from Lane Cove Road. Picture: HDR Architects / Environmental Impact Statement MORE: How AI knocks $35k off your home value The project is being fast tracked through the State Significant Development scheme, which lets developers sidestep local council approval processes despite significant push back. This leaves limited options for Ryde Council which has made multiple objections and a submission to the ...