Microsoft given the go-ahead to build a major data centre complex at the site of a former power station

Plans to redevelop the Skelton Grange site in Stourton, south-east of Leeds have been unanimously approved by Leeds City Council.

The scheme includes three data centre buildings housing computer servers, as well as a warehouse with up to 161,000 sq ft (15,000 sq m), of floorspace.

Power connections, back-up generators and cooling chimneys are also set to be installed as part of the development.

A report to councillors, said: "Data centres host and support the digital infrastructure that underpins modern life, from patient records and emails to product data and financial systems."

The government classified data centres as critical national infrastructure in 2024, placing them "on an equal footing as water, energy and emergency services systems," the report added.

Full planning permission was granted for the data centre buildings on the site, which is close to an existing Amazon warehouse, with outline permission – which establishes consent in principle – approved for the warehouse.

Skelton Grange Image: Harworth Group

The Local Democracy Reporting Service said conditions attached to the approval included the production of an employment and skills plan to provide jobs, apprenticeships and work experience opportunities.

Microsoft filed plans for the centre, based in Skelton Grange on the edge of the West Yorkshire city, earlier this month with hopes to start construction in 2027.

Clare Barclay

However, Clare Barclay, president of enterprise and industry for Microsoft in Europe, and who also chairs the Government’s Industrial Strategy Advisory Council said the company is facing lengthy delays, describing the approval process as “painful”, suggesting planning barriers mean it may not be able to power the site until 2032.

The decision by the planning panel means final approval will now be delegated to the council's chief planning officer.