Residents Protest Multi-Billion-Euro Data Centre in Kilmeaden

URGENT UPDATE: Residents of Kilmeaden, a small village in Waterford, are reeling from plans to construct a massive multi-billion-euro data centre on the site of a former cheese factory. Over 300 local residents have already objected to the project, which threatens to transform their village into an industrial hub.

The planning application, submitted last month, outlines a sprawling campus that would cover more than one square kilometre. If approved, the development will include 43,000 solar panels and various community facilities, including a gym, café, shop, pharmacy, and childcare center. However, locals fear their peaceful rural lifestyle will be “completely disrupted” over the estimated 10-year construction period.

Environmentalists have raised alarms about the project’s potential to undermine climate targets, with critics asserting that the predicted emissions could hinder progress in meeting local and national carbon reduction goals. A spokesperson from the NGO Friends of the Irish Environment warned that the emissions from the data centre could generate nearly as much CO2 in its first eight years as the entire baseline emissions of Waterford City and County.

The company behind the development, Echelon, argues that data centres are vital for Ireland’s shift towards clean energy. Echelon has previously leased data centres to major tech companies like TikTok. They maintain that the site, once home to an industrial cheese factory, is ideal due to its proximity to national transmission grids.

Local resident Karen Miller, who moved to Kilmeaden a decade ago, expressed her dismay, stating, “If they go ahead with what they’re planning, this is no longer going to be a village. This is going to be an industrial site.” Many residents echo her concerns, feeling ignored and disrespected by the planning process.

Waterford councillor John O’Leary also voiced objections, particularly regarding the increased traffic and landscape disruption the project would bring. He stressed the need for data centres to be located away from residential areas. The Waterford County Development Plan for 2024-2029 indicated that the council would not support such developments due to grid constraints.

Echelon claims it has taken residents’ concerns into account, stating that detailed consideration was given to the visual impact of the data centre, which would be set back from property boundaries. Nevertheless, the Kilmeaden Against Industrialisation Action Group has asserted that the tranquility of rural life would vanish if the development proceeds.

Local opposition is part of a growing trend across Ireland, where rapid infrastructure development is often met with resistance from communities worried about environmental impacts and quality of life. As planning permission has also been sought for a separate solar farm just 5km from Kilmeaden, tensions between progress and preservation are escalating.

What Happens Next? Community members are rallying to amplify their objections as they await a decision on the planning application. With the stakes high, the outcome could redefine Kilmeaden and set a precedent for similar projects across the country.

Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as local residents continue to voice their concerns and advocate for their community’s future.