Work has started in Glenrothes on what will become Scotland’s largest and most energy efficient data centre campus.
In the wake of the closure of Tullis Russell, more than 300 construction workers will be employed building Queensway Park and, when completed, up to 50 full-time jobs will be created there.
Contractors have begun demolishing parts of the former paper mill in preparation for the state-of-the-art development with an estimated contract value approaching £150 million.
Glenrothes and Central Fife MP Peter Grant said: “The closure of Tullis Russell was a huge blow for the local area.
“The Scottish Government investment through the Fife Task Force has helped to mitigate the effects of this and it is good news for Glenrothes that the site will once again be providing jobs for local workers.
“Fife has a strong reputation for renewable and sustainable energy including the offshore wind turbine in Methil and the biomass plant in Glenrothes, which will connect to the new Queensway Park campus.”
Queensway Park will be the first facility of its kind in the UK to draw 100% of its energy from renewable sources.
The campus will connect to the UK’s largest biomass plant and feature high speed connections stretching to more than 7,500 kilometres across the UK with global connection points.
It is a joint venture between Edinburgh based developers County Properties Group and AOC Group, who are in advanced discussions with Etix Everywhere, an international developer to run the facilities and provide technical support.
Fife Council’s depute leader Lesley Laird: “We are delighted that Fife is set to be the home of Scotland’s largest and most energy efficient data centre campus.
“Fife is at the forefront of renewable energy and innovation, and this most recent development reinforces our position.
“This investment in the Glenrothes area is a positive boost for local jobs and good news for people across Fife.”
Queensway Park director Alan O’Connor added: “This is one of the largest and most challenging projects we have been involved in and is the culmination of four years carefully planning every aspect of design and resilience.”
Phase one should be ready for occupation within around 18 months.