Scottish First Minister shifts stance on AI data centres; campaigners call for application pause
By
James Walker
Summary
A prominent campaigner has welcomed Scottish First Minister John Swinney's shift in position on hyperscale AI data centres, as the Scottish Government now considers providing planning guidance for councils. However, the campaigner insists this should be accompanied by an urgent pause on all data centre applications. The development follows widespread opposition from campaigners concerned about the environmental impact of such facilities, particularly on water and electricity resources.
Source
bskyScottish First Minister shifts stance on AI data centres; campaigners call for application pausethenational.scotKey quotes
· 2 pulledA PROMINENT campaigner has welcomed the First Minister’s changing position on hyperscale data centres in Scotland – but added that it should be accompanied by an urgent pause on all applications.
John Swinney has agreed to consider calls from the Scottish Greens and confirmed that the Scottish Government is considering providing planning guidance for councils considering AI data centre applications.
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