Story perspectives

England plans 850-acre AI data center near Great Torrington

By Drooid · Oct 20, 2026, 6:27 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

England planners aim to build one of Europe’s largest AI data centers near Great Torrington.
The site will occupy 850 acres of farmland beside Giles Atton’s farm.
Giles Atton fears the project will cause noise, pollution and spoil dark skies.
Residents expressed fury after the plan was disclosed publicly in June.
Steve Crowther, chair of the Council for the Protection of Rural England, noted the town hosts many retired professionals.

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Story summary

England planners aim to build one of Europe’s largest AI data centers near Great Torrington.
The site will occupy 850 acres of farmland beside Giles Atton’s farm.
Giles Atton fears the project will cause noise, pollution and spoil dark skies.
Residents expressed fury after the plan was disclosed publicly in June.
Steve Crowther, chair of the Council for the Protection of Rural England, noted the town hosts many retired professionals.