Data center permits issued in Newport
Newport Township, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, issued zoning permits for 15 data center buildings and three gas-fueled power plants. While a township supervisor stated the land is already zoned appropriately, residents have expressed concerns about the project's impact and lack of communication. The project is privately owned, in the process of being sold, and will require further approvals, with public input expected.
Newport Township, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, has issued zoning permits for 15 data center buildings and three gas-fueled power plants. The permits, issued on August 10th, pertain to a proposed project on former coal mine land near Nanticoke, which is already zoned for mixed use and industrial purposes. Township supervisor Joe Hillen clarified that these permits are merely the initial step in a lengthy process, noting that the property is privately owned and currently undergoing a sale to the developer.
Local resident Brenda Gurbowski expressed concerns about the potential loss of peace and quiet and criticized the township for a perceived lack of transparency regarding the project. She noted that officials initially denied knowledge of the permits before confirming their issuance. While some residents share Gurbowski's apprehension, others view the development as a potential revitalization opportunity for the town, which they believe needs new investment and utilizes unused land.
The township assures residents that they will have opportunities to provide input as development plans progress, emphasizing that all regulations, including potential new ones from the governor, must be followed. Despite these assurances, the primary concern for many residents remains the unknown aspects of the project and the feeling of being uninformed by local authorities. The project still requires additional approvals before construction can begin.