Hundreds Protest Against Proposed Menai Strait Data Centre

Hundreds of people have gathered in Caernarfon to protest against plans to build a major data centre complex between Caernarfon and Y Felinheli in Gwynedd, amid concerns about its potential impact on the local environment and surrounding communities.

Around 300 people attended a rally in Caernarfon on Saturday, carrying banners opposing the development. An online petition against the plans has attracted more than 22,500 signatures.

The proposed development, known as Canolfan Ddata Menai, would occupy a 101-acre site between the two communities. Developers say the project could create more than 900 jobs during construction, alongside around 200 permanent positions once operational.

However, opponents fear the development could damage the landscape and affect the natural environment around the Menai Strait.

Concerns over the local environment

Ernest Dyson, a resident living near the proposed site, attended the protest and strongly criticised the plans.

He described the development as “basically the destruction of the most beautiful part of the Menai Strait”, arguing that local people have a responsibility to protect the area for future generations.

Dyson said the situation was difficult to understand and stressed that residents should consider themselves custodians of the landscape.

The Menai Strait is valued for its natural beauty, wildlife and importance to the surrounding communities, making the proposed development a significant local issue.

MP calls for the right approach to data centres

Liz Saville Roberts, Plaid Cymru MP for Dwyfor Meirionnydd, also attended the rally and acknowledged the need for data centres while calling for greater consideration of their location, size and technology.

She said Wales needed proper regulations to ensure local communities benefited from major developments.

Saville Roberts warned that Wales had a long history of industries extracting resources without leaving sufficient benefits for the communities affected.

She argued that this should not be repeated with new developments in the 21st century.

Developers defend the proposals

Canolfan Ddata Menai has defended its plans, saying the project would transform and revitalise a long-derelict site while bringing significant employment opportunities to the area.

The company has also said the development would allow continued use of the surrounding area, including the Lôn Las Menai cycleway and footpath.

It maintains that the project would have no undue impact on the Menai Strait or the associated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

A debate over development and community interests

The protest highlights the growing debate over the expansion of data centres, which provide the computing infrastructure needed for digital services and artificial intelligence.

While supporters point to potential employment and economic benefits, opponents are questioning whether the scale and location of the proposed development are appropriate for the area.

For residents of Caernarfon, Y Felinheli and the wider Gwynedd community, the central issue is whether the promised economic benefits can be delivered without unacceptable consequences for the local landscape and environment.

As opposition continues to grow, the proposed Menai Strait development is likely to remain a major topic of discussion across the region.