Blackstone confirms a £10B investment for an AI data center in northeast England; UK PM Keir Starmer says the construction will create 4,000 jobs in 2025 (Surbhi Misra/Reuters)
Global investment firm Blackstone has announced a £10 billion investment in an AI data center in northeast England, a move that promises to create thousands of jobs and bolster the region’s economic landscape. The project, which is expected to be operational by 2025, is seen as a major victory for the UK’s ambitions to become a global leader in artificial intelligence.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer hailed the investment as a “game-changer” for the region, highlighting the 4,000 jobs it will create by 2025. The data center will serve as a vital hub for AI research and development, attracting talent and investment from across the globe. The investment is expected to have a significant impact on the local economy, generating further economic activity through associated businesses and infrastructure development.
Blackstone’s decision to invest in northeast England underscores the region’s growing appeal as a center for technological innovation. The area boasts a skilled workforce, competitive costs, and robust infrastructure, making it an ideal location for large-scale data center projects. The investment aligns with the UK government’s commitment to fostering AI development and attracting foreign investment in the sector.
This news comes at a crucial time for the UK, as it seeks to position itself as a leader in the rapidly evolving AI landscape. The £10 billion investment signifies a major step towards achieving this goal, while also delivering a much-needed economic boost to northeast England. The project’s success will be closely watched as a potential model for future AI infrastructure development, further propelling the UK’s ambition to become a global AI powerhouse.