Northern Lincolnshire is being considered as a potential artificial intelligence growth zone, a move that could make it one of Europe’s largest data centre hubs. The proposed Northern Lincolnshire AI Growth Zone (NLAIGZ), led by North Lincolnshire Council and developer Greystoke, would include several large-scale AI data centres and attract over £20 billion in private investment.
If approved, the project is expected to create 15,650 jobs by 2029, including 14,000 in construction and 1,650 operational roles. The facilities would provide around 2.5 GW of computing capacity—nearly double that of the existing London cluster—and form part of the UK Government’s AI Opportunities Action Plan.
Key locations under review include the A15 Elsham Wolds Industrial Estate and land near the A180 at South Killingholme. The Elsham site has drawn scrutiny from local water companies regarding flooding and supply concerns, though the developer has stated that water-efficient cooling systems will be used.
Officials say aligning AI and data infrastructure with the region’s offshore wind and carbon capture industries could help secure long-term energy resilience, encourage investment in clean power, and promote local use of Scunthorpe-produced steel. If designated an AI growth zone, North Lincolnshire would join national efforts to expand the UK’s digital infrastructure and regional economic development.
