Equinix announces £4bn investment in UK data centre capacity expansion

Equinix, a major global data centre provider, will invest £4 billion in the UK to develop a new 85-acre data centre site at South Mimms, Hertfordshire, with 250 megawatts of processing capacity. This new facility, planned to be operational by 2030, will double the company’s data centre power in the UK. The investment signals strong confidence in the UK despite concerns over energy costs and environmental impact. The UK government supports data centre growth, facilitating approvals including ‘grey belt’ land designation to promote economic redevelopment. The site is committed to using 100% renewable energy, with environmental conservation measures such as biodiversity net gain through tree planting and creating wildflower meadows. Thousands of jobs in London and the City are expected to be supported by this project, alongside hundreds of construction roles. The government also plans to invest billions into climate science and AI research as part of a broader package boosting science and technology development.