DC01UK’s outline planning application for a £3.75bn data centre has been approved by Hertsmere Borough Council’s planning committee.

When built, the site would be Europe’s largest cloud and AI data centre, with up to two million square feet of space and set in 85 acres adjacent to the A1 and M25, just east of South Mimms Services.

DC01UK has previously said the site could be operational in 2029.

Economic projections estimate the construction value of the project at £3.75bn with a year-round generation of £21.4m in business rates once the data centre is operational.

The positive economic impact of the data centre would also see the creation of 500 on-site jobs during the construction phase, 200 permanent, skilled jobs once up and running and a further 10,900 indirect jobs.

DC01UK is also estimated to generate approximately £1.1bn per annum GVA (Gross Value Added) indirectly per year.

A spokesperson for DC01UK, said the development will bring “huge benefits” for local people through a stronger local economy, more skilled jobs and better opportunities.

“Our plans also include a raft of upgrades for local transport, including new and existing bus routes, expansion of the local cycle hire scheme and road improvements.

“This approval will also solidify Hertsmere’s status as a technology and media superhub, complementing other established, large organisations in the area such as Elstree Studios, BBC Elstree and Sky Studios.

“With planning for this important piece of Critical National Infrastructure now approved, the site stands ready to power the needs of tomorrow, bringing a much-welcomed boost to the UK’s digital economy.

“Our plan will put Hertfordshire at the epicentre of the new data centre revolution, as well as creating £3.75bn for the economy during construction and almost 11,000 indirect jobs across the South-east once operational.”

Jeremy Newmark, leader of Hertsmere Borough Council and chair of the Hertfordshire Growth Board, added: “This is a momentous development for our borough. Hertsmere has cleared the way to becoming the home of a data centre which will be integral to serving Britain with cutting-edge technology.

“It’ll be a piece of critical national infrastructure needed for many generations to come.”

“The project, which is aligned with the council’s vision, is set to deliver hugely significant growth and economic benefits for the area, creating jobs during and after the construction phase, as well as new businesses. This news clearly reinforces Hertsmere’s status as an extremely attractive location for business and industry, with a reputation that is getting even stronger.

“The data centre will provide critical synergies for our significant local film and TV sector, with three major sets of studios in Borehamwood.

“The Government’s AI Opportunities Action Plan, which was announced earlier this month, shows the impact that the AI revolution is likely to have for many years to come and data centres, such as this, will play a major part.

“While outline planning permission has been granted, we will, of course, continue to listen to and engage with residents about these exciting plans as more details are firmed up.”