East Lothian Council has appointed a preferred supplier as it begins early-stage work on plans to develop a hyperscale data centre on the former coal store site at Cockenzie.

The council confirmed that Sustainable Development Capital LLP (SDCL) has been selected following a competitive tender process, paving the way for the two parties to explore a Joint Venture aimed at delivering a major digital infrastructure project. The proposed development would include local training and employment opportunities, as well as long-term investment and financial benefits for the council.

The data centre would occupy part of the former coal store site, leaving the wider area – including the footprint of the former power station – available for other future developments.

Before any construction can take place, the plans will be subject to the normal planning application process, with members of the public given the opportunity to comment. It is estimated that finalising legal agreements could take up to a year before reaching the statutory public consultation stage, but the council has indicated a desire to engage with the local community at the earliest opportunity. Next steps are expected to be confirmed in the coming months.

SDCL’s selection as preferred supplier follows strong interest from multiple operators in establishing a data centre at the Cockenzie site. The decision, agreed through a private report to the council in February 2025, marks a key milestone in efforts to redevelop the former power station land for new economic use.

East Lothian Council Spokesperson for Economic Development, Councillor John McMillan, said: “While this process is still at an initial stage, it marks an important step forward in the potential redevelopment of part of this key site.

“In addition to capital investment, construction, and permanent employment, there are potential opportunities to secure long-term community benefits such as support for education and training programmes in partnership with local providers.

“We will be working closely with SDCL and other partners to ensure any development maximises benefits to our communities.”

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Jonathan Maxwell, Founder and CEO of SDCL, said: “We are delighted to have been selected as partner for this landmark project. Cockenzie has an extraordinary history in Scotland’s energy and industrial heritage and this stands as a phenomenal opportunity for it to take a leading role in the new industrial revolution.

“We are looking forward to working closely with the community in East Lothian to help the project achieve its full potential and create employment and economic growth for the region.”

The proposed partnership represents one of the most significant redevelopment opportunities for East Lothian in recent years, signalling a shift from the site’s industrial past towards a digital and energy-efficient future.