Statement regarding Miners Rest data centre proposal

Statement attributable to City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves

Following a recent announcement to the ASX by X2M regarding the development of a data centre and renewable energy precinct in Miners Rest with data centre partner Resi Ventures, the City of Ballarat can confirm it has not received any planning applications for this proposal.

While Council officers have had early conversations with the developer, no formal applications have been lodged.

All planning applications are subject to a thorough assessment process.

For a proposal of this nature, key considerations would include building design, traffic impacts, noise, environmental matters, external referral authority requirements, and the overall suitability of the development for the site.

If a planning application is lodged with the City of Ballarat, this would include an opportunity for community submissions prior to any decision being made.

Given the State Government's recent changes to Victoria's planning system, which has expanded its role in planning decision-making, this proposal could also be submitted directly to the Minister for Planning as the determining authority.