Updated 17/04/2026
On behalf of the local community, I request the support of all residents in formally opposing planning application V/2026/0033, due to its potential risks to community wellbeing, the preservation of Little Oak Plantation, and the safe operation of nearby businesses. For those familiar with our area over the past two decades, efforts have consistently been made to minimise the impact of Sherwood Business Park on our neighbourhood, safeguard Little Oak Plantation from development encroachment, and ensure its recognition as Ancient Woodland, along with Local Wildlife Site (LWS) status for both the plantation and adjacent areas.
The proposed Data Centre, rated at 30MW and anticipated to consume power equivalent to about 8,000 homes, is designed to operate continuously throughout the year, adjoining Little Oak (Blue Bell Wood). The primary documentation from the developer acknowledges substantial noise impacts affecting residents of Little Oak and the "Old Toll Bar house" on Derby Road, suggesting that mitigation efforts may limit these effects to an "adverse" level. Additionally, noise modelling indicates that residences on Forest Road come close to being impacted by the noise also - see map
Historical feedback has highlighted shortcomings in the original planning model for Sherwood Business Park, notably the proximity of the heavier industrial facilities close to Little Oak and residential facilities rather than the office blocks which are situated further away, which we know have resulted in numerous noise complaints. These concerns reinforce the need for careful consideration of future developments in this sensitive area.
We encourage residents to submit individual objections to Ashfield District Council, focusing on the following key concerns: Click the highlighted text to take you to the letters.
Noise and Tonal Impacts
The proposed 24‑hour data‑centre plant is expected to generate continuous mechanical noise, including tonal components that are particularly intrusive in a quiet rural environment. These impacts threaten residential amenity and the tranquillity of the woodland and public rights of way.
Ecological Impact
Little Oak Plantation forms part of a vital green corridor supporting protected species and sensitive habitats. Disturbance from noise, lighting, heat, and construction activity risks long‑term deterioration of biodiversity and fragmentation of ecological networks.
Heat‑Plume Impact
The projected 30 MW heat plume would raise local air temperatures and reduce humidity, altering soil conditions, fungal networks, and the microclimate essential to the health of the woodland. These changes could cause irreversible ecological decline.
Impact on Neighbouring Factories and General Matters
The site lies adjacent to established precision‑manufacturing facilities whose operations depend on stable environmental conditions, low vibration, and uninterrupted access. The scale and intensity of the proposed data centre introduce risks to operational reliability, workforce safety, and site security. Wider concerns include increased traffic, pressure on utilities, and the incompatibility of a 24‑hour industrial‑scale installation with the existing business‑park balance.
Your participation is essential. Individual objections carry significant weight in the planning process, and together we can ensure that our local environment, community wellbeing, and economic stability are properly safeguarded.
I have emailed, some 2 weeks ago, both our elected local councillors – Madden and Bell – asking that this matter be called in, Cllr Madden has responded by stating that she is no longer on the planning committee and I have had no response from Cllr Bell. I shall once again, ask that this be undertaken, providing a copy of the letters.
I shall be writing to other organisations to ask for their support because we cannot allow a living microsystem existing since 1600 to be lost from our heritage for ever, but there is only so much I can do – the rest is up to you.
If you can provide any help by spreading the word we would be extremely grateful, providing suggestions or indeed helping out. i.e.. Organise a meeting - please do not hesitate to contact me at:
I shall update this page on actions that I have undertaken, so that you are aware of it
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Here are the bullet points summaries to build you own letters.
Noise and Tonal Impacts - Bullet Points
Ecological Impact - Bullet Points
Heat‑Plume Impact - Bullet Points
Impact on Neighbouring Factories and General Matters - Bullet Points