Fianna Fáil TD for Wicklow Pat Casey has welcomed the news that planning permission has been finalised for a major data centre project at Avoca River Park in Arklow.
An Bord Pleanála has given the green light to the Echelon data centre and it’s hoped that work on the facility can get underway in the coming months.
“I’m delighted that this project can finally get off the ground, following planning approval from An Bord Pleanála. I have been working on this project for nearly two years and today marks the beginning of an exciting new high-tech era for Arklow and South Wicklow”, said Deputy Casey.
“This is the largest investment in industry in Wicklow in generations and I am delighted to have played a part in bringing the project to this stage. The data centre alone is a game changer for the South Wicklow region and Echelon have exciting plans for this iconic site.
“The initial investment of over €500m will transform this brown field site into a major data centre with 100 megawatts of capacity in phase 1, which will in turn attract industries in the valuable technology and software sectors.
“I want to pay tribute to everyone who has worked on this project over the past 17 months – there was a very strong community and online campaign, and local businesses in Arklow were integral in getting this project over the line.
“As well as the 450 construction jobs which will come on stream initially, the data centre itself will create 90 high skilled jobs and it’s hoped that more employment can be created in the business park. Tech companies have a record of locating near data centres and its hoped that this venture will encourage more industry to the Arklow and south Wicklow region.
“I will continue to work closely with the company, the IDA and Wicklow County Council to ensure that this project proceeds into construction. Wicklow based employment is one of my main priorities and I am determined to see this project benefit jobs and commercial activity not just in Arklow, but the entire South Wicklow region”, concluded Deputy Casey.
