Travellers put a stop to AI data centre: Plans for 130ft-high warehouse on hold over claims it would 'indirectly discriminate' against group living in 27 caravans next door

Résumé détaillé

The proposed warehouse in the commuter town of Bushey, Hertfordshire, would be located just 10 metres away from an established traveller pitch with 27 caravan (pictured top right).

Published: 00:01 GMT, 11 November 2026 | Updated: 07:55 GMT, 11 November 2026

Plans to build a 130ft-high AI data centre have been put on hold amid concerns the development would 'indirectly discriminate' against a group of travellers living next door.

The proposed warehouse in the commuter town of Bushey, Hertfordshire, would be located just 10m away from an established traveller pitch with 27 caravans.

A travellers group objected to the project, saying it would cause indirect discrimination to the inhabitants through 'loss of amenity, sleep disturbance and environmental stress'.

Hertsmere councillors have now voted to delay their decision on the warehouse, citing concerns about its visual impact and demands on the local water supply.

The move comes amid growing opposition to large-scale AI data centres across the UK, with communities accusing developers of 'short-circuiting any opposition'.

They fear the plans for the warehouses are being pushed through under 'special circumstances' - despite concerns they will ruin areas and create intolerable noise.

In Bushey, the proposed data centre would consist of four buildings, each around 130ft high.

Half the site is currently taken up by a former hotel which borders a traveller site (top right). There are fears the plans could 'indirectly discriminate' against the inhabitants living there

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