Whittlesea Council has formally objected to plans for another major data centre in South Morang, citing concerns over its proximity to residential properties, environmental impacts and the potential loss of future housing opportunities.
At its November 5 meeting, councillors unanimously endorsed a submission prepared by council officers opposing the proposed development at 165 Williamson’s Road, South Morang.
The proposal, submitted under the State Government’s Development Facilitation Program (DFP), involves a 200 to 250-megawatt data centre that would operate around the clock, seven days a week. The Minister for Planning will retain responsibility for making the final planning decision.
Council officers identified several grounds for objection, including the proposed removal of more than three hectares of native vegetation and 219 protected trees, among them 208 river red gums.
The proposed 33-metre-high facility would also be located approximately 60 metres from neighbouring residential properties, prompting concerns about potential noise, lighting and air quality impacts, as well as restrictions on future residential development in the area.
Cr David Lenberg said the proposal highlighted ongoing concerns about local communities being excluded from significant planning decisions that directly affect their neighbourhoods.
