Horsham Rural City Council says it is not aware of any active planning permit applications for a data-centre in Horsham and has not had any discussions with the State Government or any proponents regarding such developments in the municipality.

Council can confirm a planning permit relating to a previous proposal was issued several years ago, but that development did not proceed and the permit has since expired.

Mayor Brian Klowss said the council understood community interest in the issue and wanted to clarify the current situation.

He said council acknowledged community interest in the potential impacts of large-scale developments and had consistently advised the government that meaningful community engagement was essential for any significant proposed projects.

“Council’s position is that communities should be appropriately informed and engaged whenever major developments are being considered,” he said.

“Open and transparent communication is critical to maintaining community confidence in planning processes.”

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