A public inquiry has commenced to assess the potential approval of a significant data center project.

The developer, Manor Farm Propco Limited, aims to establish the facility on a 20.2-acre (8.2 hectares) green belt location in Slough, which would include a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), generators, and additional infrastructure.

After Slough Borough Council failed to reach a decision on the proposal, Manor Farm Propco appealed to the Planning Inspectorate, asserting the project’s national significance.

The eight-day inquiry is taking place at the council’s HQ at Observatory House and will provide recommendations to the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities, and Local Government, Steve Reed, who will ultimately make the final determination.