Kao Data  has been granted planning permission for a 40 MW data centre in Kenwood Point, Greater Manchester.

The new facility represents a £350 million investment from Kao, with plans for the former industrial site to be operational in late 2025, following a sustainable redevelopment.

During the planning process for the data centre, Kao worked with JLL and Cavendish Consulting  as part of a public consultation, engaging with local business, residential and public sector communities to develop the site’s role in the region’s digital economy.

Kao has also said it plans to engage with educational institutions to encourage technical career pathways for local students.

“I’m delighted to see that planning for our new cutting-edge facility has been approved by Stockport Council, and to see the region claim its position as the UK’s foremost next-tier data centre hub outside of London,” said Doug Loewe, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Kao Data.

“As the UK accelerates its ambitions to become a world-leader in AI, and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) continues its mission to ensure the region is a world-class destination for business, our new data centre will play a pivotal part in its technological and economic future.”

David Bloom, Founder and Chairman, Kao Data, added, “This is an important milestone for Kao Data, as the plans to bring the technological benefits of our advanced data centre platform to the North of England are approved to proceed.

“Since inception, I have always believed that our organisation would play a vital role in serving the UK’s scientific, research and AI communities, and as we blaze a new trail into Greater Manchester, helping to pave a new path to the skyscrapers for local students’, I’m excited to see those plans become reality.”