Actor Sam Heughan urges pause on Scotland's proposed megaproject AI data centre

CX Tech Limited has applied to construct a cluster of eight 120 MW AI data centres on land adjacent to the decommissioned Chapelcross nuclear power station in Dumfries and Galloway, creating a 1 GW campus that would surpass any existing facility worldwide. Actor Sam Heughan, a native of Galloway, publicly criticised the scheme, saying it primarily serves US tech giants and that financing and benefits would flow abroad.

He highlighted environmental concerns, noting the development would occupy farmland, protected grassland and an area larger than 77 football pitches, threatening local wildlife. More than 5,000 objections have been submitted through a portal managed by the Scottish Greens, while the council has delayed publishing comments until the notification period ends. Heughan urged the Scottish Government to halt the project and introduce stricter planning legislation, suggesting a pause or moratorium as a prudent first step.