This data centre is not in planning or pre-planning yet, but East Lothian council have chosen Sustainable Development Capital LLP (SDCL) as the preferred supplier to deliver the project. We believe this development will cover an area of around 70 acres and sit on land which was the former coal store site of the Cockenzie power station, and which is adjacent to an approved BESS site. The approved BESS development and the proposed data centre sit close to housing and a children’s playpark, and are close to Cockenzie primary school.
Although planning permission has not yet been sought, it is anticipated that construction could commence in summer/autumn 2029.
There is no indication of the capacity of the development but it will be a hyperscale data centre, likely 200MW in size. East Lothian Council will review a report in August 2026 on the main commercial terms of the agreement with the developer.
You can see more information on this development on the East Lothian Council website:
First steps towards a data centre at Cockenzie
Update on plans for a data centre at Cockenzie
East Lothian Council are carrying out a Landscape Sensitivity Assessment (LSA) Consultation which mentions Data Centres. The purpose of this LSA is to evaluate how sensitive different landscape character areas (LCAs) are to different types and scales of development. The consultation closes on 3rd August 2026 – find out more and how to respond HERE.
Find out more about the community campaign – Say NO to Cockenzie Data Centre Group
Join the campaign Facebook Group here.
