The North East's Future: Embrace AI or Face Disruption
The arrival of QTS Data Centres in Cambois is a game-changer for the region. With a £10 billion investment, this American company is not just bringing a massive campus but also a wave of economic opportunities. The project promises to create almost 3,000 construction jobs and 400 permanent positions, a significant boost for the local community.
Brian Herlihy, QTS Data Centres' chief energy and strategy officer, highlights the far-reaching impact. He envisions a thriving ecosystem around the data centres, involving universities and venture labs. Herlihy's enthusiasm is infectious: 'Ten billion, tens of billions... it's mind-boggling! And that money stays local. We hire locally, we shop locally, and the local businesses thrive. Hotels, eateries, and the entire community benefit from the influx of visitors and professionals.
This project is a testament to the power of AI and data centres in shaping our future. It's a call to action for the North East to embrace innovation and stay ahead of the curve. As Herlihy puts it, 'Ten billion goes a long, long way.' But will the region rise to the challenge and fully embrace the potential of AI, or will it risk being left behind in a rapidly changing world?