A PUBLIC consultation event for a proposed data centre has been cancelled following strong criticism of a recent drop-in held in West Kilbride and Fairlie.
The session, organised by Eneus and scheduled for September 22 in West Kilbride, was part of the consultation process for a controversial AI hyperscale data centre at Hunterston.
The event was axed according to a post by West Kilbride Community Council.
The decision follows stern criticism of the recent public consultations in Fairlie and West Kilbride, which attracted protesters and hundreds of people.
Speaking at the recent Cumbrae Community Council meeting, councillor Eleanor Collier said: "I was at the pre-consultation event on the Hunterston data centre in West Kilbride – it was an absolute shambles – the community in Fairlie and West Kilbride are very against it.
"The objectors knew far more about data centres than the people that were there for us to talk to.
"I don't know if they are going to get their act together – they were very unprofessional and shambolic in their approach so far.
"We can't see the economic benefit for the North Coast, North Ayrshire or Scotland, people are failing to see that and it is my own view that the application doesn't even get any further."
Opponents of the scheme fear the development could have significant consequences for wildlife habitats, the landscape and nearby communities.
A petition opposing the project has already attracted more than 5000 signatures.
However, Eneus Energy argues the project is needed to meet growing demand for digital infrastructure as artificial intelligence technologies, streaming services and cloud-based data storage continue to expand.
Speaking at the pre-consultation, Alan Mortimer of Eneus Energy defended the event and called it 'robust', and acknowledged the concerns raised by members of the public.
He said: "It has been very robust, and quite a few ideas as to what we should look into that could be helpful for the project.
"There have been a number of wildlife concerns raised throughout the consultation and I will be taking that back to make sure that is addressed going forward.
"We will look into reports from other data centres around the world and what reports are available. And likewise, concerns about infrasound, we will look into what science is available."
Cllr Collier also said she would be approaching the owner of Hunterston Estate, Madam Pauline Hunter, about her concerns regarding the project.
Eneus Energy claims that Hunterston Data Centre Project will attract 360 long term jobs, and represents one of the largest private investments in Ayrshire’s history, in the region of £10 billion - with a significant proportion falling to Ayrshire and Scottish supply chain companies.
Eneus is backed by Carlyle and GIC, two of the world’s major infrastructure investors. Both companies are already highly active in data centre projects worldwide
The Eneus Energy website stated: "The data centre will provide a vital, long-term income stream to safeguard the future of Hunterston.
"It will allow the estate to invest in its properties and supporting infrastructure, much of which is ageing and in need of modernisation.
"These works will help the estate and local community to thrive and enjoy all Hunterston can offer, sustaining the area for generations to come.
"Investment is crucial to safeguarding the future of Hunterston Castle, the historic seat of Clan Hunter. It would also facilitate improvements to Hunterston House, a sought-after venue for period dramas in television and in film."
Following the pre-consultation, Eneus Energy intends to submit a planning application this year.
Subject to planning approval and other necessary consents, construction is anticipated to begin in 2027/28.
Timescales may change as the project progresses through the planning and environmental assessment process.
