The Ealing Planning Committee has approved a comprehensive redevelopment of the International Trading Estate in Southall, focusing on the construction of a major data centre and industrial campus.
The project involves demolishing existing buildings and constructing four data centre units within three buildings, totalling 156,804 sqm GIA, and four industrial buildings ranging in height from 11.3m to 15.5m. A central Pavilion building will serve as a café and amenity hub. The development includes two substations, a District Heating Network building, internal roads, parking, and extensive landscaping, featuring a new Green Link and canal-side public realm.
The site is part of a Locally Significant Industrial Site within the Southall Opportunity Area, supporting industrial intensification. The data centres are classified as critical national infrastructure and contribute to West London’s emerging data centre cluster. The project aims to provide flexible accommodation for businesses, supporting tenant retention and growth. Extensive pre-application engagement with authorities and stakeholders has resulted in a high-quality design with significant landscaping and public realm improvements.
The development promises significant public benefits, including approximately 460 construction jobs annually and 1,120 operational jobs. It will contribute £14.6 million in annual business rates and £6.6 million towards a Data Centre Skills and Training Strategy. An additional £750,000 will support a Local Economy Management Plan. Environmental enhancements include a Biodiversity Net Gain of 79.4% and an Urban Greening Factor of 0.17, with 153 new trees and rain gardens.
While the development will impact air quality due to diesel backup generators, mitigation measures and a £3 million contribution to air quality are planned. The proposal’s benefits outweigh the less-than-substantial harm to heritage sites, aligning with the London Plan and Ealing Development Plan. Planning permission is recommended, subject to legal agreements and conditions.
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