Kao Data has started work on a £350 million data centre in Stockport, one of the largest in the region.

The 40MW, 25,900 sq m centre is set to play a key part in the region’s, and the country’s, digital infrastructure.

Kao Data said it will house some of the UK’s most advanced computing technologies, including artificial intelligence and cloud workloads. It will be one of the world’s most energy-efficient facilities and powered by 100% certified renewable energy.

The UK recently designated data centres as ‘Critical National Infrastructure’, alongside energy and water systems, which means the government will support the sector in the event of critical incidents, minimising impacts on the economy.

The centre is expected to be up and running by 2026.

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham said: “As we continue our mission to ensure world-class digital infrastructure for the region, this new data centre will play a pivotal part in our fast-growing and diverse technology ecosystem, reinforcing our position as a global leader in AI and data centre capacity.”

Doug Loewe, CEO, Kao Data, said: “Beginning the development stage of our new data centre marks an important milestone, not only for Kao Data, but for technology in Stockport and Greater Manchester. The city region is becoming an increasingly strategic location for digital infrastructure investment, and our new facility – the largest and most sustainable in the north of England – further reinforces Greater Manchester’s position as a digital and economic powerhouse.”