Colt DCS Expands Hyperscale Data Centres in West London
Planned three new hyperscale data centres and innovation hub with power secured.
Colt Data Centre Services (Colt DCS), recognized as a key player in the creation of AI and hyperscale data centers, has enthusiastically announced its approved expansion in Hayes Digital Park, West London. This venture includes the construction of three additional data centres, supported by an impressive £2.5 billion investment. This move is part of a broader effort to fortify the UK's growing digital infrastructure and contribute significantly to the AI economy.
Colt DCS plans for the new facilities—dubbed London 6, 7, and 8—to operate entirely on renewable energy, thanks to a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). The company has successfully secured power contracts with National Grid, ensuring a robust supply that is expected to facilitate operations by October 2027. The expansion is set to enhance the site's IT power capacity, increasing it to 160MW, which will support advanced technological adaptations. Construction is slated to begin in mid-2026, with operations for the first data centre anticipated to start by early 2029, creating over 500 permanent jobs in the area and providing training for more than 50 technical apprentices over the next decade.
Innovation Hub Collaboration with Brunel University
Alongside the data centres, Colt DCS is thrilled to develop an Innovation Hub in collaboration with Brunel University. This hub will serve not only as a business incubator but also as a community space fostering digital entrepreneurship. The aim is to cultivate synergy between light-industrial and digital innovation sectors, thus creating numerous avenues for collaboration, research, and skills advancement. Students at Brunel University will have the opportunity to leverage this space to launch technology-driven projects, further enhancing the national digital economy.
Design and Support for Local Businesses
Colt DCS has partnered with AECOM to bring the design concepts for the Innovation Hub to life. The facility is designed to embody a spirit of community and innovation, equipped with flexible spaces that can evolve to meet future industrial demands. This initiative aligns with local planning requirements and embodies a commitment to generating social value, such as hosting various cultural and community events.
Sustainable Measures and Community Impact
Significantly, the expansion will also introduce a district heating network that utilizes waste heat from the data centres, promoting efficient energy use among local businesses and residential areas. Under the stipulated planning conditions, backup generators are limited in operation, ensuring that the centres primarily rely on the national grid, further committing to sustainable practices.
"This announcement signifies a pivotal development in enhancing the UK's digital landscape," said Xavier Matagne, Chief Real Estate Officer at Colt DCS. "As data centres are essential to digital transformation, this expansion positions us to fuel innovation, support the AI advancement, and contribute meaningfully to energy transition efforts."
Matagne highlighted the broader community benefits, stating, "The new campus in Hayes, including the Innovation Hub, will generate community value—ranging from leveraging heat for district heating to facilitating employment and skills enhancement. We take pride in being one of the few operators ready to expand in London, ultimately empowering the UK’s economy sustainably and inclusively."
Local Government Support
Support from local authorities further underlines the importance of this development. Cllr Steve Tuckwell, Hillingdon Council's Cabinet Member for Planning, Housing, and Growth, emphasized the council's commitment to fostering an environment for business and innovation. He described the Innovation Hub as a crucial new resource that will equip locals and smaller businesses with essential skills and opportunities, contributing significantly to economic growth.
"Hayes is at the forefront of shaping London's digital economy and infrastructure, and it’s critical that local residents can access the benefits of these innovations," Tuckwell affirmed.
Colt DCS: A Commitment to Sustainability
Colt DCS remains dedicated to designing, building, and operating expansive facilities tailored for major hyperscalers and large enterprises. With a diversified portfolio of 13 operational data centres and an additional 19 in development, their focus extends across major cities in the UK, Europe, and the APAC regions. Their mission is to provide secure and resilient infrastructures, while also planning for future growth needs, ensuring a robust business environment for their clients.
For over 25 years, Colt DCS has established itself as a trusted player in the data centre arena, placing significant emphasis on environmental responsibility. They are actively working to reduce their global environmental impact through strategic sustainability initiatives and are committed to achieving Science Based Targets in line with the latest Net Zero Standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of Colt DCS's expansion?
The expansion aims to enhance the UK's digital infrastructure and support the growth of the AI economy with three new hyperscale data centres and an Innovation Hub.
When is the construction of the new data centres expected to begin?
Construction is anticipated to commence in mid-2026, with the first centre going live in early 2029.
What is the significance of the Innovation Hub?
The Innovation Hub will serve as a collaborative space for digital startups, fostering entrepreneurship and skills development in the community.
How will the new facilities contribute to sustainability?
The data centres will operate on 100% renewable energy and include a district heating network to utilize waste heat for local businesses and residences.
What role does Brunel University play in the project?
Brunel University collaborates with Colt DCS to develop the Innovation Hub, encouraging students to engage in entrepreneurial projects and innovations.
