The leader of Hertsmere Borough Council has welcomed plans for an "incredibly exciting" data centre in South Mimms.

The centre would be one of the largest data centre campuses in Europe, covering 85 acres and providing two million square feet of floor space.

DC01UK, the company behind the plans, hopes to have the centre up and running by 2029, and claims the site would generate £3.75 billion for the UK economy during the construction phase and create 500 jobs.

The application also includes a proposal for a technology and innovation hub at the site of the former White Hart pub, with the building to be refurbished and then used to provide training and apprenticeship opportunities.

Hertsmere Borough Council leader Cllr Jermey Newmark, who is also chair of the Hertfordshire Growth Board, welcomed the plans, saying: "This is incredibly exciting news. 

"It shows that Hertsmere is an extremely desirable location for business and is a natural base for the cutting-edge technology and critical infrastructure which will serve Britain in the coming years and for many future generations.

"The project is aligned with the council’s vision. It will be a major boost for our economic development, creative and climate change strategies. The prospective economic benefits are clear. 

"A scheme like this will deliver significant growth for the area. It will create many new jobs, both during and after construction, and new businesses.

"Of course, the application is subject to the normal planning process and will be thoroughly assessed.

"We will, as always, listen and speak to residents about the plans, and a public consultation on the proposals will be held. I am certain that local people will realise the benefits of the scheme. It has my full support."