We want to thank every single person who has signed, shared, donated their time, attended meetings, and helped grow this campaign.
Over the past several weeks, we have carefully reviewed all available options, including the possibility of a Judicial Review of the City of Edinburgh Council's decision not to require an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the proposed 200MW Wester Hermiston data centre.
After taking legal advice and assessing the financial and practical realities of a court challenge, we have decided not to pursue a Judicial Review.
This is not a retreat.
It is a strategic decision.
Importantly, the developer does not have planning permission. The proposal still faces a full planning application process, public consultation, scrutiny by councillors, and detailed examination of its environmental and infrastructure impacts.
By stepping away from a costly legal battle, we can focus all of our energy and resources on where local communities have the greatest influence: the democratic planning process.
Our campaign is now focused on four priorities:
- Engaging all Edinburgh councillors and ensuring they understand the scale and implications of this proposal.
- Presenting new evidence and research relating to the environmental impacts of data centres.
- Seeking the highest possible level of public and political scrutiny when the application is submitted.
- Preparing residents to submit informed planning objections based on material planning considerations.
Our message remains simple:
No decision should be made until the full impacts on water resources, energy infrastructure, waste heat, greenfield land, wildlife, and local communities have been properly assessed and publicly scrutinised.
This campaign has already demonstrated that local people care deeply about the future of Wester Hermiston and West Edinburgh.
The next phase will be crucial.
PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE continue to share this petition, encourage friends and neighbours to sign, and watch for further updates and opportunities to get involved.
Together, we will ensure that local voices are heard.
Thank you for your continued support.
West Edinburgh Against Data Centres