Government delays planning decision on Tritax data centre

17th Mar 2026 09:00

(Sharecast News) - Tritax Big Box Reit confirmed a further delay to its proposed data centre development on Tuesday, as it continues to wait for planning approval.

The real estate investment trust intends to open its first data centre at Manor Farm near Heathrow, as it expands beyond its traditional base of logistics.

The project requires planning approval, however, and Tritax confirmed on Tuesday that it has been informed by the Ministry of Housing Communities and Local Government that the secretary of state will now not make a decision until around 9 June.

A decision had been expected this month, itself a delay to the original expectation for consent in December 2025.

As a result, Tritax now expects anticipated practical competition of the pre-let data centre between October 2027 and March 2028, with income recognition starting in conjunction with the practical completion of the building.

However, despite the delay Tritax reiterated earnings guidance.

It said: "The board continues to maintain its confidence in achieving its ambition of growing adjusted earnings by 50% by the 2030 full-year.

"We continue to expect to recognise development profits at Manor Farm in the 2026 full year, supported by a successful planning application and securing a pre-let.

"The board is confident in the long-term strategic and financial merits of the Manor Farm development for the company's shareholders, and in its contribution to the delivery of critical national infrastructure supporting UK economic growth."

As at 0845 GMT, shares in the blue chip were largely unchanged at 151.14p.

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