A major datacentre project in Loughton, Essex, that was promoted by the UK government as the nation’s largest AI supercomputer will miss its intended launch next year after organisers identified problems with its power supply. Officials say the issues mean the facility may now not come online until the mid-2030s.
Announced in 2025, the site was billed as a significant addition to the UK’s computing capacity for artificial intelligence research and commercial applications. At the time of the announcement it received prominent attention from government figures who described it as a strategic investment in the country’s technology infrastructure.
The delay stems from unresolved power supply problems at the site. Those issues have forced planners to revise the opening timetable, converting what had been a near-term operational target into a potentially multi-year wait. No immediate resolution or firm new start date has been made public beyond the suggestion that the project could be held back into the mid-2030s.
The setback will defer the availability of the centre’s computing capacity to researchers, businesses and other users who had been expected to benefit from earlier access. It also represents a challenge for policymakers and investors who have promoted the build-out of large-scale AI infrastructure as part of national technology ambitions.
Organisers and government backers have so far not published a detailed public timetable for remedial work or for when the power-supply hurdles will be resolved. The situation underscores the practical constraints — including utilities and infrastructure — that can affect delivery of large computing projects even after formal announcements and initial approvals.
Further updates are expected as those responsible for the project and relevant infrastructure providers work through technical and planning steps required to secure a reliable power arrangement for the site.