Next week marks the grand opening of MCR2, our brand-new, state-of-the-art sustainable data centre in Manchester located adjacent to our existing facility, MCR1. This launch follows a two-year construction project delivered in collaboration with our trusted design and build partner, Keysource.
Preparing to launch MCR2 – our sustainable data centre development in Manchester
Posted on in News
Drum roll please ...
Why Manchester?
The construction of MCR2 takes place against the regeneration of Wythenshawe, which will see an investment of over £500m over the next 10 years and will include the transformation of a 1970s shopping centre and the surrounding areas to include a new public square, new shops, net zero carbon commercial, community and cultural space, and more than 1,750 new homes built on council-owned land.
Our decision to build another facility in Manchester was driven by the region’s continually growing need for high-quality, purpose-built data centre facilities. And with ESG considerations taking an increasingly prominent role for stakeholders, data centre clients and the industry as a whole, the need for this infrastructure to be responsibly delivered is growing in importance. MCR2 addresses this need by delivering a state-of-the-art facility underpinned by sustainable design principles, to provide efficient, reliable, and cutting-edge data solutions.
How the project stands out
MCR2 is the first construction project to be completed in the regeneration of Wythenshawe, acting as a catalyst and momentum boost for sustainable development in the area.
Built with sustainability at its core, the project includes innovative features such as:
- An embodied carbon assessment, conducted at the concept design stage according to BS EN 15978:2011 standards, to quantify and minimise the environmental impact throughout the construction and life cycle of the data centre.
- Attenuation tank, which collects and manages rainwater that falls within the footprint of the building, mitigating the risk of local flooding and reducing pressure on wastewater treatment facilities.
- Powered entirely by sustainable energy sources – MCR2 uses clean energy from renewable sources, features solar PV roof panels and emergency generators running on renewable HVO biofuels.
Project outcomes
Wythenshawe regeneration
MCR2 is the first construction project in the broader regeneration of Wythenshawe. It will play a pivotal role in positioning the area as a leader in digital infrastructure. This is expected to draw businesses to the region and further establish it as a thriving centre for innovation.
Manchester as a tech hub
Manchester has lacked purpose-built, efficient, sustainable, and advanced data centres, lagging other digital hubs. MCR2 aims to close this gap, strengthening Manchester’s status as a leading tech hub for the future.
Sustainable data centre solutions
Sustainability has been central to MCR2’s ethos from the start. Every detail was planned to minimise carbon impact and maximise efficiency through environmentally-conscious design. By incorporating energy-efficient systems, MCR2 helps tenants and their clients meet ESG targets without compromising on technical performance.
Heat reuse
The incorporation of heat reuse technology into MCR2’s design has the potential to provide heating to local housing, turning waste heat into an environmentally and economically friendly contribution to the community. This benefit will begin once housing developments and heat reuse systems are integrated, showcasing Datum’s commitment to sustainable, community-focused development.
Employment opportunities for local area
Since 2007, MCR1 has created local jobs and opportunities. MCR2 will expand this legacy with apprenticeships, graduate schemes, back-office roles, and skilled engineering positions – fostering talent and promoting long-term personal and economic growth in the Manchester area.
See for yourself
Guests attending next week’s launch event will have the opportunity to explore our brand-new data centre facility. For those not attending, or interested in visiting our other locations, please book a tour of FRN1 in Farnborough or MCR1/MCR2 in Manchester and we would be pleased to arrange your visit.