Former factory site would be bulldozed in data centre plan

AN empty Caernarfon factory site famed for one of the longest running industrial disputes in British history would be demolished under plans to turn the area into a data centre.

- By DALE SPRIDGEON

An artist's impression of the planned data centre

The Ferodo site at Griffiths Crossroads was a major employer for decades, with up to 1,500 workers producing vehicle components, particularly brake pads and linings.

The site, built in 1962, became known for the Friction Dynamics Strike which saw workers picketing the factory for almost 1,000 days between 2001-2003.

It closed not long after, and has remained vacant ever since.

The Daily Post revealed new plans for the site back in October.

Now, an application to Cyngor Gwynedd for a 'scoping opinion' has revealed further details of plans for a “comprehensive redevelopment” to deliver a new data centre campus.

The site extends to approximately 38.2 hectares. The application notes details “to facilitate the construction of the proposed development, all existing buildings and structures on the site will be demolished”.

It also describe how the data centre buildings would accommodate computer systems, servers, and associated equipment to store and process data.

The development falls within the planning Use Class B8 “functioning primarily as a storage facility for digital infrastructure” the application says.