Power boost lined up for Silicon Sands

SP Electricity North West will commence constructing a 33,000-volt substation in a few weeks, eyeing a 2027 completion for the key part of infrastructure for Blackpool Council’s envisioned data centre cluster.

The substation is part of SP Electricity North West’s wider £7.5m programme dedicated towards enhancing Blackpool’s power infrastructure.

The utilities provider is working alongside Network Plus and Cubby Construction Services on the project. Close to six kilometres of underground duct has already been laid for the scheme.

Silicon Sands is set to be a power-hungry development, serving as a hub for data centres and companies seeking to take advantage of the Celtix-Connect2 cable on the site that provides ultrafast internet speeds and handles a third of the world’s internet traffic. It is due to be powered by renewable energy.

Situated within the Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone, the 50-acre campus has a masterplan in place with three data centres, research and development facilities, and offices.

“This upgrade represents a significant milestone in supporting the next phase of growth at the Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone,” said Ian Lillis, SP Electricity North West’s project manager for the Blackpool project.

“The installation of new infrastructure, alongside a purpose‑built substation at the airport, will provide the additional capacity required to unlock new opportunities and enable developments such as Silicon Sands,” he continued.

“This investment will help sustain job creation, attract high‑value industries and build on the strong momentum already driving regeneration across Blackpool and the wider Fylde Coast.”

Blackpool Council’s cabinet member for economy and built environment Cllr Mark Smith described the work on the substation as a “major step forward” for Silicon Sands.

“Silicon Sands is a key part of Blackpool Council’s plan to make Blackpool better for the people who live here,” he said.

“The masterplan will take years to build, but the result could be thousands of highly paid jobs in growing industries for the people of Blackpool and the whole Fylde coast.”

Smith continued: “We are committed to Silicon Sands not only creating thousands of jobs but tackling the climate crisis through renewable electricity generation and reusing the excess heat locally to help reduce bills.

“This initial investment will help kickstart the first developments, while we engage with ways to increase the amount of renewable energy available.”