A MASSIVE datacentre park could be built on the border of Thurrock, creating up to 2,370 jobs on a site stretching over almost three-quarters of a square mile.

The site of the 'London Data Freeport' project is to the north of Ockendon and sits within the borough of Havering, whose council has been in negotiation to secure the multi-billion pound venture.

The Council has been in consultation with private sector developer, Digital Reef, to build what would be Europe's largest datacentre, detailed in this project brochure.

The majority of the site will also become an ecology park for the public to enjoy, in order to deliver the aspiration for the datacentre to be carbon neutral. 

The project will be discussed by the council's cabinet next week and leader of Havering Council Cllr Ray Morgon, says: "Havering can be incredibly proud to have attracted this investment interest through to this crucial stage and the report to cabinet seeks to confirm the support of members for the investment, in principle.

"This project represents one of the largest mobile investments globally, representing 25% of all UK inward investment in 2021 alone.

"This intrepid opportunity will both boost our council finances from new business rate payers and provide a shot in the arm for wider local economy, through new jobs for Havering residents, developing training and skills, as well as opening up to 300 acres as a new ecology park for the public to enjoy.

"I am truly excited for the opportunities that this inward investment can bring to the borough and our residents."

Data provided by Reef Group indicate that the proposed development is expected to require £5.30 billion of capital expenditure which includes building works, site development and infrastructure, including a renewable energy battery system to power the site.

Work is expected to begin - if planning approval for the project, which is in the green belt, is granted - in the second quarter of 2023. It is anticipated that the construction phase will last 51 months, through 2023 to 2027. Each unit will be built out on an incremental basis, taking nine months to complete, with a new unit commencing each quarter. The first 18 months will also include site development and infrastructure works.