Draft National Policy Statement for Data Centres
Applies to England
Consultation description
The National Policy Statement (NPS) will apply to data centre projects requesting direction into, and submitting applications under, the Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project regime.
Why we are consulting
This consultation seeks views on the draft NPS for Data Centres. This NPS guides technical assessments, examinations by the Planning Inspectorate, and decisions made by the relevant Secretary of State on applications for development consent for data centres under the NSIP consenting regime.
Consultation details
Audiences
This is a public consultation and open to any individual or organisation.
We particularly seek views from:
- data centre operators and developers
- infrastructure providers and experts
- local planning authorities and strategic authorities
- local communities in areas where data centre development exists or is being considered
- any other stakeholder groups with an interest in data centre development.
The Public Sector Equality Duty analysis has identified no negative impacts or risks that this policy will lead to less accessibility for any demographic group. Clearer, better informed and more consistent assessment and decision-making on data centre developments will help to ensure better assessment and decision making. We will continue to update this analysis as the policy develops, following consultation.
Territorial extent
The geographical scope of this consultation is England. The NPS may be of material consideration for decisions made in Scotland and Wales.
How to respond to this consultation
Your response will be most useful if it is framed in direct response to the questions posed, though further comments and evidence are also welcome.
Submit your responses online. When responding, state whether you are responding as an individual or representing the views of an organisation.
In exceptional circumstances, if you need to submit a hard copy or require another format (for example, braille or large font) send an email request to: digital@businessandtrade.gov.uk.
Confidentiality and data protection
Information you provide in response to this consultation, including personal information, may be disclosed in accordance with the following UK legislation:
If you want the information that you provide to be treated as confidential, please tell us, but be aware that we cannot guarantee confidentiality in all circumstances. An automatic confidentiality disclaimer generated by your IT system will not be regarded by us as a confidentiality request.
We will process your personal data in accordance with all applicable data protection laws. Your responses may be analysed and summarised using technology, such as artificial intelligence (AI), to help us to handle consultation responses efficiently and accurately. Review our privacy policy.
Quality assurance
This consultation has been carried out in accordance with the government’s consultation principles.
If you have any complaints about the way this consultation has been conducted, you can email: datacentrenps@dsit.gov.uk.
Ways to respond
or
Email to:
Write to:
Data Centre Growth Policy Team
Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade
2nd Floor
22 Whitehall
London
SW1A 2EG