A Tasmanian council has approved plans for a massive 288-megawatt AI-powered datacentre despite fierce local opposition, raising questions about the adequacy of current planning regulations. The George Town council voted narrowly to greenlight the project by a developer, acknowledging concerns but citing limited alternatives under existing rules. The decision comes just days before the federal government seeks to establish national standards for datacentre development, highlighting a potential gap between state-level approvals and broader policy frameworks. Critics argue the process failed to address community objections effectively, leaving residents and environmental groups questioning the balance between economic growth and local interests.
Concerns over planning process as George Town council gives go-ahead for 288MW AI factory despite opposition from localsGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastThe day before Anthony Albanese secured agreement with states and territories to develop national datacentre standards, a small council in Tasmania was grappling with the existing regulations in the face of strong community opposition to a new AI factory planned for its town.The George Town council voted 6-1 to approve the plans of Australian developer Firmus to build a 288 megawatt (MW) datacentre at Long Reach, north of Launceston, but said it did so reluctantly. Continue reading...
