QTS is still going ahead with its Cambois data centre project in the AI Growth Zone located in Northumberland. That’s despite OpenAI recently announcing plans to pause its own project in the region. 

The Blackstone-owned company has already begun site preparation work on its Cambois data centre, with QTS planning to invest up to £10 billion on the project. That will net the company around 720 MW of capacity across 10 facilities if fully built out. 

While not located in the exact same area as OpenAI’s Stargate UK proposal, which was set to be located at Cobalt Park in North Tyneside, around 11 miles south of QTS’ own project, both are located within the wider North East AI Growth Zone. 

The Government has set high expectations when it comes to the North East AI Growth Zone, noting that it could generate more than 5,000 new jobs and attract up to £30 billion in private investment. That was before OpenAI hit the brakes on its project, however. Now, QTS’ plans appear to be the only ones set to progress at this stage. 

In a statement, QTS noted, “QTS remains committed to delivering our Cambois Data Centre project in Northumberland.

“We have made significant progress on site since we announced its launch, having worked collaboratively with the local community and Northumberland County Council.

“Since receiving planning approval late last year, we have started preparing the site for development and this spring, we will install piling foundations for the first data centre building.

“We’re deeply committed to being a good neighbour where we live, work and operate.

“In Cambois, we are collaborating closely with local partners to support causes that matter to the wider community, including local charities and education providers, with a full programme of upcoming initiatives.”

Despite the OpenAI pause, regional leaders are keen to stress that the North East’s broader pitch remains intact.

A spokesperson for the North East Combined Authority added, “It is disappointing news that this is on hold, but it reflects national challenges around energy pricing and regulatory certainty rather than the strength or ambition of our region.

“However, we will continue to work with the Government to explore ways to remove the barriers and ensure this can move forward.

“The North East remains one of the UK’s designated AI Growth Zones, with strong assets in power, land, skills and applied innovation, and our direction has not changed.”