Harworth gets planning nod for Microsoft data centre near Leeds

(Alliance News) - Harworth Group PLC on Monday said the local planning committee in Leeds, England has passed a resolution to approve the planning application from Harworth and a Microsoft Corp subsidiary at Skelton Grange.

The Rotherham, South Yorkshire-based regenerator of land for sustainable development said the application by MSFT MCIO Ltd was for a data centre campus with all associated infrastructure and outline planning permission for a warehouse building.

The proposals cover 500,000 square feet across three data centre halls and auxiliary buildings, with 160,000 square feet of industrial & logistics space and electric vehicle charging on Harworth's 16-acre adjoining plot.

Harworth completed the first phase of the transaction with Microsoft in June 2024, worth GBP51.2 million, for 27 acres. Harworth continues to deliver site remediation and enabling works for Microsoft.

The second phase covers 21 acres. Harworth will receive a further GBP53.2 million on completion of a sale to Microsoft.

"Obtaining the resolution to grant planning consent is demonstrable progress towards the completion of the Plot 2 sale and reflects our close and effective collaboration with Microsoft," said Harworth Chief Executive Lynda Shillaw.

"This transaction has driven group level value growth and facilitates investment in the region, catalysing economic growth, with Skelton Grange estimated to deliver GBP4 billion of inward investment when the development completes."

Shares in Harworth were up 2.5% at 139.20 pence on Monday morning in London.

By Michael Hennessey, Alliance News reporter

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