CGI of the Hertfordshire Campus at South Mimms
The South Mimms site, now renamed the Hertfordshire Campus by Equinix, was developed by DC01UK, a joint venture between Griggs Group and Chiltern Green Energy. While the two firms lacked the resources to undertake a project of this magnitude independently, their collaboration successfully advanced the development to its current stage. Hertsmere Borough Council approved the project plans in January this year, clearing the way for construction to begin.
Under Equinix’s ownership, the Hertfordshire Campus will deliver more than two million square feet of data centre space, representing a major addition to the UK’s digital infrastructure. Construction is expected to commence in 2027, with completion targeted for 2030. The project is anticipated to play a central role in supporting the country’s growing demand for data processing and cloud services, particularly in artificial intelligence and advanced technology sectors.
James Craig, director of DC01UK, stated: “This is a landmark moment for the UK and a powerful example of local entrepreneurship driving national innovation. The ambition behind the DC01UK project is extraordinary and we are delighted that the vision for this project will be taken forward by leading experts committed to delivering it to the highest standards, maintaining our ambition, realising the community benefits, and embedding themselves in the growth and future of Hertfordshire. For us, it’s a proud moment that also marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter as we continue to progress other UK data centre development opportunities to drive further innovation and investment in this space across the UK.”
Co-director Andy Brewer added: “This deal marks a significant step forward for this world-class project and for the UK’s digital future. It was born of local ingenuity and determination and aligns closely with the government’s ambition for the UK to be a global leader in AI and advanced technology. With one of the world’s largest operators now taking our vision forward, the project is entering an exciting new phase, one that will help position the UK at the forefront of the data revolution.”
Stephen Beard, global head of data centres at Knight Frank, which advised on the transaction, commented: “This is a seismic moment for the UK’s infrastructure landscape. The scale, ambition and strategic value of this site are unmatched. It’s rare to find a location that ticks every box – power, connectivity, proximity to key markets – and this one does. Today’s announcement gives the UK a major leg up in the global AI infrastructure race.”
The Hertfordshire Campus is expected to strengthen the UK’s data centre capacity significantly, supporting technological growth, creating local employment, and reinforcing the region’s position as a hub for digital infrastructure investment.
