THERE will be a delay in assessing a planning application for a proposed data centre in Auchtertool, Fife Council has announced.
The news comes after Scottish ministers issued the local authority with a screening direction in respect of an environmental impact assessment (EIA).
Pam Ewen, head of planning, climate, and sustainability service, commented, “Following the planning authorities consideration that an EIA was not required for this application, Scottish ministers have now directed that an EIA is required. I understand that at least one other council have received a similar direction. Scottish ministers could consider reviewing the related regulations to provide greater clarity nationally and consistency for communities and developers. Environmental matters are considered in assessing a planning application whether an EIA is required or not.
“The applicant will now be asked to submit an EIA and once this is received there will be a further period of public consultation. There will be a delay to the assessment of the planning application while the applicant prepares an EIA. Once the applicant has had time to consider timescales for submission, we will update the planning portal.”
Scottish ministers have also issued a national direction requiring planning authorities to notify Scottish ministers of all current and new application submissions for data centres over 50MW power capacity. The application near Auchtertool will be notified to ministers in accordance with that direction.
Pam Ewen added, “We understand that Scottish ministers are giving consideration as to whether Scottish Government should provide planning guidance on data centres. National planning guidance would be welcomed not only for planning authorities but also for communities and developers.”
