Harworth wins planning approval for Microsoft data centre scheme

(Sharecast News) - Property developer Harworth Group said on Monday that the Leeds local planning committee had passed a resolution to approve Microsoft's planning application at Skelton Grange in West Yorkshire. Harworth said the application seeks full consent for a data‑centre campus with associated infrastructure, alongside outline permission for a warehouse building, with the proposals covering around 500,000 square foot across three data‑centre halls and auxiliary buildings on Plots 1 and 2, as well as roughly 160,000 square foot of industrial and logistics space and EV charging on Harworth's adjoining 16‑acre plot.

The FTSE 250-listed firm completed the first phase of its transaction with Microsoft in June 2024, selling 27 acres at Plot 1 for £51.2m and continuing to deliver remediation and enabling works on the site, while the second phase, Plot 2, covers a further 21 acres, where Harworth was also carrying out enabling works. On completion of the sale to Microsoft, the group will receive an additional £53.2m.

Chief executive Lynda Shillaw said: "Obtaining the resolution to grant planning consent is demonstrable progress towards the completion of the Plot 2 sale and reflects our close and effective collaboration with Microsoft.

"This transaction has driven group level value growth and facilitates investment in the region, catalysing economic growth, with Skelton Grange estimated to deliver circa £4bn of inward investment when the development completes."

As of 0915 BST, Harworth shares were up 1.77% at 138.20p.

Reporting by Iain Gilbert at Sharecast.com

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