A PLAN to build a new state-of-the-art data centre at Worcester Six Business Park looks set to be approved when councillors meet next week.

The work by Stoford Development and Spetchley Developments would see 4,783 square metres of land transformed into a data centre and offices for web hosting business IONOS at the business park next to the M5 on the edge of the city.

Wychavon District Council's planning committee meets on Thursday (November 12) with a recommendation from officers that the plan is approved.

The work would be carried out in two phases with part of the data centre built first followed by the rest of the building.

Edward Peel, development manager at Stoford, said: “We are pleased to announce the submission of the planning application for IONOS, which in the current environment recognises the strength of the business park and continues the success we have experienced to date at Worcester Six.

“IONOS will join a raft of high-quality and global businesses at the business park, all of which have recognised the strategic location, excellent transport links and first-class workforce. We’re looking forward to getting started and delivering yet another prime unit.”

Councillor Richard Morris, deputy leader and portfolio holder for economic growth at Wychavon District Council, added: “I really welcome this exciting proposal which in these difficult economic times once again demonstrates how attractive Wychavon, and Worcester Six, is as a place to do business.”

Councillor Ken Pollock, cabinet member for economy and infrastructure at Worcestershire County Council, added: “We look forward to working with IONOS, as a potential new occupier of the Worcester Six Business Park. This news is testament to the teams who have worked tirelessly in the most difficult of circumstances to maintain the county’s extensive progress in the business development and growth area.

“Data has become one of the world’s most valuable commodities in recent years and the pandemic has not altered this. Data centre demand continues to be driven by the rapid adoption of cloud services and the emergence of business models. This development not only solidifies Worcester Six Business Park as a first-rate business location but also provides Worcestershire with a highly valued asset, bringing substantial economic benefits for the county."