Kao Data has initiated the construction of a new £350m ($459.97m) data centre in Stockport, Greater Manchester, England. 

This project, which began with the demolition of existing buildings on the former industrial site, is expected to be operational by 2026.  

The event saw in attendance Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham and Stockport Council leader and counsellor Mark Hunter. 

This initiative aligns with the UK government's designation of data centres as Critical National Infrastructure, a status that was last updated in 2015. 

The new 25,900m² facility is anticipated to be one of Europe's most advanced and sustainable hosting environments, using 100% certified renewable power. 

This 40MW data centre will include computing technologies such as AI and cloud workloads. 

Kao Data CEO Doug Loewe said: “Beginning the development stage of our new data centre marks an important milestone, not only for Kao Data, but for technology in Stockport and Greater Manchester.  

“The city region is becoming an increasingly strategic location for digital infrastructure investment, and our new facility - the largest and most sustainable in the north of England - further reinforces Greater Manchester's position as a digital and economic powerhouse.” 

It is expected to generate high-net-worth employment opportunities in construction, engineering, and operations. 

Burnham said: “As we continue our mission to ensure world-class digital infrastructure for the region, this new data centre will play a pivotal part in our fast-growing and diverse technology ecosystem, reinforcing our position as a global leader in AI and data centre capacity.” 

“This data centre can also raise aspirations and opportunities for young people, providing a window on the GM economy that they've never had before.” 

This announcement follows Kao Data’s appointment of Pete Judson as its new chief operating officer in August this year.