We are delighted to announce that Buckinghamshire Council has approved CyrusOne’s development proposal for Iver Heath Data Park. The plans for a brand-new data centre facility have sustainability, community and biodiversity at their core.
The project will restore and reconnect the landscape, improving the site’s biodiversity through the creation of an ecologically rich parkland and new habitats that will enhance the quality of the Colne Valley Regional Park. Set into the ground, the facility is designed to be fully integrated into the landscape. It will deliver a 71% Biodiversity Net Gain for area-based habitats and a host of community benefits.
Extensive landscaping plans include the planting of 670 trees, over 7,000 square metres of woodland and 90,600 square metres of mixed meadow and acid grassland. 72,800 square metres of the newly created green biodiverse space will be accessible to the public, with an edible landscape, a biodiverse lake, woodland walks and a cycle path for the local community to enjoy.
The campus includes a gabion clad training centre with industry-specific facilities for employees and students. This long-term commitment to developing specialist skills extends CyrusOne’s successful partnership with the UTC Heathrow to improve economic and educational opportunities for the local and wider area.
The data center is designed to achieve a BREEAM “Excellent” certification and with on-site photovoltaic panels to deliver 64% of the regulated office energy demand. Powered from Iver Grid Supply Point, the facility uses 100% certified renewable electricity provided by SSEN.
Screened from the newly created park, a hidden valley provides access around the building, with landscaped terraces providing daylight, fresh air and striking views from the timber framed workspace. Rainwater collection is treated and reused within the site, alongside free air cooling from ambient air whenever possible and half of the designated parking spaces will provide on-site charging hubs for electric cars.
Nat Lee, Director, Apt, said:
“We are delighted that Buckinghamshire Council has granted approval for Iver Heath Data Park. The proposals reflect CyrusOne’s commitment to sustainability, community and a forward-looking approach to the possibilities of Data Centre design.”
Matt Pullen, EVP and Managing Director, CyrusOne, said:
“We’ve been working hand-in-hand with Apt, Atelier Ten, Cameo Landscape Architects, HDR, Ramboll, Cratus, Montagu Evans and Radcliffes Environmental on the proposals and designs, alongside Longcross Land, who provided investment guidance. It’s been a fantastic experience collaborating with industry leading firms aligned to our sustainability and community focused vision, and we look forward to seeing the plans come to life. Additionally, we’ve received support from HM Treasury, the UK Department of Business & Trade (DBT), Department for Science, Innovation & Technology (DSIT) and the Office for Investment (OFI) which has been critical in progressing with the project and reaching this important milestone.”
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