Microsoft has secured planning consent for a major hyperscale data centre campus at the former Skelton Grange power station site in Leeds, advancing a scheme expected to support hundreds of construction and operational jobs.
Leeds City Council has unanimously approved the hybrid application for the 65-acre site on the north-east bank of the River Aire.
The Microsoft-led scheme will deliver three data centre buildings totalling around 424,000 sq ft, supported by power, water and energy infrastructure. Outline consent has also been granted for 160,000 sq ft of industrial space on land retained by Harworth Group, the original site owner.
Six-year build programme
The approval unlocks a £107m land deal agreed in 2024. Harworth has already received £51.2m, with a further £53.2m due on completion of the second phase.
Construction is expected to support around 740 jobs over a six-year build period. Once complete, the campus and logistics element are expected to support more than 350 operational roles.
The project team includes architect TTSP and engineering consultants HDR and Ramboll.
Lynda Shillaw, Chief Executive of Harworth, said:
“Obtaining the resolution to grant planning consent is demonstrable progress towards the completion of the Plot 2 sale and reflects our close and effective collaboration with Microsoft.”
A start on site is expected within 12-18 months.
Source: Construction Enquirer
