Sydney's data centre boom is turning suburbs into 'wastelands', councils warn
Residents and local councils in Sydney are raising concerns over the rapid proliferation of data centres in suburban areas. Critics argue that these facilities create noise, environmental impacts, and land-use conflicts near schools and residential zones.
Why it matters
As AI infrastructure expands, urban planning authorities are struggling to balance the need for digital capacity with the quality of life for local communities.
Link copied Share Share article As she walked along a quiet bush track in Sydney's Lane Cove West, Charlotte heard a low, constant hum rising through the trees.
"I thought, 'What is this coming from?'" she said.
That data centre, run by AirTrunk, may soon have company.
Developer Goodman wants to build 'Project Mars' on the same strip, about 50 metres from Charlotte's backyard and about 160m from the primary school her daughters attend.
Three more data centres are proposed nearby, meaning up to five could eventually operate within earshot of homes, a school and the Lane Cove River.
Charlotte says she is not against data centres, just the positioning. ( ABC News: Victoria Pengilley )
"The amount of fumes that's going to create … 160 metres away from a primary school … it's just not acceptable," Charlotte, who did not want her surname published, said.
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