Havering is probably not the first location that would spring to mind if you were thinking about high tech industries. However, new plans from an infrastructure developer could change that. They want to create ‘Europe’s biggest data centre’ in the area. We want to have a look at the proposals and the local response to them. Then, if you need property management in Havering, you can speak to us.

A massive project

Digital Reef is proposing to build a massive development in North Ockendon. They want to create the East Havering Data Centre, a massive 40 acre site. It would include data centre space, facilities for renewable energy and education, horticulture, and more. This could have massive economic benefits, including creating over 1,200 jobs.

The proposal also includes the creation of an ecological park. This would be an impressive 113 hectares, creating greenery as part of the project. It would be open to the public too.

Another interesting detail is the plan to make the development net zero. According to the promo materials, it will get power from renewable sources. As a result, there won’t be any emissions from operations.

Local response

There has been quite a backlash to the proposals though. Locals have a number of criticisms, including the loss of Green Belt land, the noise the project will create, access issues, and more. Let’s look at them, then you can contact us if you need help with property management in Havering.

A big point of contention is the site itself. It is currently farmland. The area is rural and doesn’t have many large developments. As a result, locals are critical of the plan to build a series of big warehouse style buildings full of equipment in the area. They say it would be harmful to wildlife and air quality. It could set a bad precedent for similar projects.

There is concern about the noise and impact of the construction as well. The estimate is the development could take ten to twelve years to complete. In that time there would be a massive amount of noise. Local roads would be become incredibly busy too. This is a massive issue because they are country lanes rather than A roads.

Another worry is the amount of resources the project would require. The main concern is it would consume “a tremendous amount of electricity” as well as requiring “enormous quantities of water”.

LDO

It will be interesting to see what happens with the proposals in the future. There is a case for the development but, as you have seen, local opposition is strong too.

One thing to note here is Digital Reef is looking to obtain a local development order (LDO) for the project. This means they would not have to do a typical planning application. Instead, the leaders of Havering Council would have to decide to approve or reject it. LDOs can streamline decisions about projects, but get criticism for not being as rigorous.

Do you need help with property management in Havering?

Finefair Ltd is a company you can come to at any time to get a flexible, reliable service. We do almost everything with investment properties, from arranging guaranteed rent to managing them. We can even work with clients to explore things like HMO conversion and portfolio expansion.

So, if you ever want property management in Havering or any other help, you should speak to us. We’d be happy to devise the perfect service for you.