// BBC UK NEWS — CRONACA
'Terrifying' 101-acre data centre plans would be 'heartbreaking', campaigners warn
Emma Lewandowicz says the sheer size and environmental impact of the proposed data centre is "terrifying"
A proposed data centre spanning 101 acres would have a "heartbreaking" effect on the landscape and wildlife, campaigners have warned.
Developers want to build the new centre between Caernarfon and Y Felinheli in Gwynedd, saying it could create more than 900 jobs during construction and a further 200 permanent roles.
But nearly 15,000 people signed a petition in opposition to the plans, with local campaigners saying the proposed development was too big and would lead to noise pollution and ruin the landscape.
A spokesperson for Canolfan Ddata Menai said it would "transform and revitalise the long-derelict" site and offer significant employment, with plans currently out for public consultation.
Data centres are buildings full of powerful computers used to run digital services, from online banking to movie streaming.
The UK government classifies them as critical national infrastructure and, according to recent Senedd research, "most jobs in the UK" are now reliant on them.
Planning documents show the proposed centre would include five main buildings for storing data with the highest of them standing at 30m (98ft).
But campaigners have raised concerns about water usage, the effect on the environment and how many jobs would go to local residents.
I used to live in a quiet area - now a data centre overlooks my garden