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NEWS MASTERPLANNING
Chetwoods-masterplanned ‘sustainability driven’ data centre campus in Southall gains consent
C
hetwoods Architects and client Global Technical Realty (GTR) have received planning consent for a 32.2-acre mixed-use technology campus within the existing International Trading Estate in Southall. Designed for GTR – a $1bn European “build-to-suit” data centre platform, by the practice, who are specialists in the delivery of contemporary industrial and technology masterplans, the “transformative regeneration site will deliver a data centre campus, alongside modern industrial workspace,” said Chetwoods. The site has been masterplanned by Chetwoods and AR Urbanism to “seamlessly blend cutting-edge digital infrastructure with the needs of an industrial site.” Recognised by the London Borough of Ealing as being of “high quality,”Chetwoods’ design will “elevate market standards for data centre schemes, combining sustainably driven architecture with fl exible interior design to deliver world-class public realm improvements,” said the architects.
Four data centre buildings form the core of the development. Building upon their experience of designing and delivering both industrial units and data centres across the UK, Chetwoods’ design “prioritises sustainability, security, and operational effi ciency.” The public realm includes the planting of 153 new trees, an important part of the regeneration work, alongside a commitment to achieving a site biodiversity net gain of 79.4%. The facade treatment “takes inspiration from big data rhythms, using horizontal banding and textured over-cladding to create a visually striking identity that celebrates Southall’s industrial and cultural heritage.” Chetwoods worked closely with GTR and local stakeholders to ensure the proposals respected local character. The process was “thorough and collaborative, resulting in designs that have been
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responded to positively.”
The industrial campus complements the high-tech data centre facilities with modern, fl exible spaces designed to support a diverse range of businesses. The development will provide industrial employment generating fl oorspace, ensuring a smooth transition for existing tenants while attracting new occupiers to the area. Each industrial building has been designed with photovoltaic panels, optimised daylight penetration, and high-performance materials, ensuring long-term sustainability and adaptability.
The other areas of the scheme include a series of buildings, each with a distinct identity. Union Works serves as the gateway to the development, featuring a prominent glazed offi ce frontage that animates the streetscape. The Boat Yard, a striking canal-facing structure, incorporates curved eaves that “echo Southall’s rich waterways and canal history.” The Jam Factory, inspired by the site’s industrial past, features a distinctive sawtooth roof form that optimises natural daylight. At the heart of the masterplan, The Pavilion
serves as a “dynamic community hub,” with collaborative workspaces, food and beverage, and fl exible meeting areas. A defi ning feature is Chetwoods’ commitment to creating a vibrant and engaging public realm. The scheme introduces a green pedestrian link from Brent Road to the Grand Union Canal, promoting connectivity, biodiversity, and active travel. The landscape strategy features a canal-side trail, a central public square, ecological habitats, and tree-lined streetscapes. Mobility and connectivity are also key priorities within the design. The scheme promotes pedestrian and cycle-friendly routes, electric vehicle charging provision, and improved road access, ensuring smooth circulation for all users. “The masterplan also integrates seamlessly with Southall’s evolving urban fabric, enhancing local infrastructure and connectivity.” The scheme “represents a bold vision for the future, combining high-performance digital infrastructure with a forward- thinking approach to sustainability, placemaking, and community benefi t.”
ADF JANUARY 2026
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