Nottingham data center proposal withdrawn after backlash
A proposal to build a data center in Nottingham, New Hampshire, was withdrawn by developer Thomas Moulton just before a planning board meeting. The withdrawal followed significant public backlash, including a petition with over 25,000 signatures, citing environmental concerns, water usage, energy costs, and noise pollution.
A proposed data center project in Nottingham, New Hampshire, has been withdrawn by entrepreneur Thomas Moulton just hours before it was scheduled for an initial discussion by the town's planning board. The decision came amidst significant local opposition, including an organized protest and a petition that amassed over 25,000 signatures.
Opponents raised concerns about the project's potential impact on water usage, energy costs, and noise pollution. Specifically, the petition highlighted the proposed site's location on Route 4, which contains 30 to 40 acres of wetlands, posing a major ecological threat to the federally designated Wild and Scenic Lamprey River Watershed.
Moulton's lawyer notified the town of the withdrawal, stating the applicant needed to conduct additional research and further evaluate the property and proposed use. In an interview, Moulton attributed the backlash to misinformation on social media and expressed a desire to return with more comprehensive information to address community concerns regarding noise, water, and environmental impact before potentially reintroducing the project.