Google data centre 'would destroy' Thurrock wildlife site

The Arena Essex Raceway, in Thurrock, is at risk under plans for a major new facility, which conservationists say would wipe out half of the protected site and more than 80 per cent of its protected habitats, deemed irreplaceable.

Designated a Local Wildlife Site (LoWS) in 2006, Arena Essex is home to more than 687 species of invertebrates and 439 plant species, including some of the UK’s rarest and most threatened wildlife.

Emily Buttress from Essex Wildlife Trust said: "The current proposal would destroy a Local Wildlife Site that is home to incredibly rare species and some of the rarest habitat in our country.

Emily Buttress has raised concerns on behalf of Essex Wildlife Trust over the site (Image: EWT)

"Essex Wildlife Trust has submitted its third detailed objection to the proposed development through the planning process.

"We are deeply concerned about the negative impacts a hyperscale data centre campus would create.

"Incredibly rare wildlife and habitats would be destroyed, and we are worried about the impacts for the local community due to water use, energy use, the warming effect on the land around them and not enough research into the long-term impacts of these buildings."

The site supports one of the UK’s most endangered habitats, Thames Terrace Gravel grassland, found in just 50 locations nationwide—45 of which are in Thurrock.

Species recorded at Arena Essex include the Shrill Carder Bumblebee, found in only two areas in England, the endangered Broad-leaved Cudweed, and the red-listed Nightingale.

Essex Wildlife Trust has objected to the data centre plans three times, warning the development could have significant environmental consequences.

Concerns include high water consumption in an already water-stressed region, large-scale energy use, and heat emissions that could raise surrounding temperatures by up to 9C, disrupting wildlife breeding cycles and drying out habitats.

A petition titled "Save Arena Essex – Tell Google to search elsewhere!" has gathered more than 48,400 signatures.

A Google spokesperson said: "We are working closely with Natural England and ecological experts to guarantee a 10% Biodiversity Net Gain.

"Our proposal also ensures a substantial part of the site is preserved for new public open space, green links, retained habitat, and the long-term enhancement of key woodland corridors."

The trust has called on Thurrock Council to prioritise nature and communities over profit.

Emily Buttress said: "The trust is not anti-development, but it needs to happen sustainably.

"We have to work together to ensure nature, wildlife, and communities are considered.

"The health of rivers, wildlife, and the communities of Essex must be put ahead of any profit."