18 February 2026
Kao Data, a specialist developer and operator of data centres tailored for AI and advanced computing, has released a new report detailing how Slough has transformed into Europe’s largest data centre cluster and the UK’s de facto AI Growth Zone (AIGZ). .jpg?lu=875)
The report, titled “The Quiet Revolution: How Data Centres Remade Slough and Secured the UK’s Digital Future,” underscores Slough’s hosting of over 675 MW of hyperscale data centre capacity, supporting more than 14,000 jobs and generating over £30 million annually in business rates, significantly boosting the local economy.
The publication coincides with the UK’s one-year milestone since the launch of the Government’s AI Opportunities Action Plan, which proposed establishing AIGZs to fast-track infrastructure development supporting the country’s AI and economic ambitions.
Produced with support from Carbon3IT and Parisi, the report demonstrates that Slough already embodies a thriving growth zone, operating at around 1 GW of capacity and providing a successful blueprint for regional economic expansion. It also challenges industry misconceptions that data centres contribute minimally to local employment and economic activity, showing instead that their impact has been substantial.
Key findings include:
- Over 30 operational data centres in Slough, with around 1 GW total capacity, including 675 MW of hyperscale facilities serving UK availability zones.
- Support for approximately 14,000 jobs across direct, indirect, and induced employment sectors.
- Contributions exceeding £30 million annually in local business rates.
- 95% of Slough’s data centre electricity consumption is sourced from renewable procurement.
- The Simplified Planning Zone (SPZ) framework generated £18 million in council revenues from 2014 to 2024.
- Nearly 2.7 million residents within an hour of the Slough Trading Estate possess engineering, construction, and telecommunications expertise.
Spencer Lamb, MD & Chief Commercial Officer at Kao Data, emphasized that Slough exemplifies what can be achieved with well-planned infrastructure, energy security, and a skilled workforce: “Data centres have delivered long-term jobs, significant tax revenues, and built a resilient foundation for the UK’s AI and digital economies. They are a force for good—driving economic regeneration, providing well-paid employment, and helping transition the UK to a greener economy through operator-led energy procurement.”
The report underscores the urgency of expanding regional data centre hubs across the UK, especially as data centres now constitute Critical National Infrastructure. It advocates for creating additional clusters in regions like Greater Manchester and beyond to foster regional growth, ensure supply security, and build economic resilience.
Building on Slough’s success, the report calls for deliberate, scaled efforts to develop new AI Growth Zones (AIGZs) and strengthen Britain’s digital infrastructure to ensure the UK remains a powerful yet resilient leader in AI and digital transformation.
The full report, “The Quiet Revolution: How Data Centres Remade Slough and Secured the UK’s Digital Future,” is available for download here.
