Court blocks Digital Gateway data center project in Prince William

A Virginia appeals court has halted the controversial Digital Gateway data center project in Prince William County, marking a major victory for local residents who have battled the development for three years. Fox 5's Tisha Lewis reported live from Manassas, near Bronner Farm on Pageland Lane, the proposed site for the data centers. The appeals court's decision found the approval process for the project to be flawed and affirmed the rights of plaintiffs to challenge such developments. An advocate against the project stated the court had delivered "another nail in the coffin" for one of Virginia's "most destructive data center projects." The ruling, primarily from Judge Stewart Raphael, upheld a circuit court decision by Judge Kimberly Irving and agreed with broader arguments regarding standing, document availability, and the rights of residents to seek redress through the courts, even after speaking at public hearings. The opinion also referenced concerns about noise during construction and from emergency generators. The massive 22 million square foot data center complex, one of the largest proposed globally, would have been located near Manassas National Battlefield Park. It was initially approved three years ago but faced continuous legal challenges over zoning approval disputes. Elena, a Gainesville resident and leader of the Coalition to Protect Prince William County, questioned whether the county would defend its residents or align with the wealthiest industry, highlighting concerns about energy provision and impacts on the power grid. She noted that the area is considered one of the country's most endangered parks. Prince William County officials, including the Board of Supervisors, are reviewing the court's decision. The county attorney will provide legal advice, as the decision can be appealed within 30 days, meaning the litigation is still active. The county maintains a policy of not commenting on active litigation. While one property deal related to the project did close, most were contingent on the litigation concluding, suggesting the land will likely remain with its original owners following this ruling.