May 28, 2026 | Posted by Abdul-Rahman Oladimeji
GreenSquareDC has withdrawn its application for a proposed 120MW data center in Perth. The project, planned for Hazelmere, would have covered about 15,000 sqm (161,460 sq ft) north of Stirling Crescent and near the Helena River and Helena River Steiner School. However, concerns over its proximity to the river and school, environmental impact, resource usage, and potential noise pollution led CEO Charles Penny to withdraw the application. In a letter to the City of Swan Council, CEO Charles Penny said the approach used to evaluate potential noise from emergency backup generators was “unrealistic and impractical.”
“It is unfortunate that the assessment has been focused on this highly conservative emergency scenario, rather than the technical merits of the proposal,” the letter continues.
“We continue to firmly believe that the proposed development is an appropriate use for this established industrial site in Hazelmere and is well aligned with the existing industrial zoning and strategic objectives for increased employment, investment, and the establishment of critical digital infrastructure within Western Australia.”
“Securing data centers and AI infrastructure will strengthen our security, support our startups, and researchers. It must, however, be done sustainably and underpinned by a strong social licence.”
