The rumoured plans for Google to establish a massive new AI data centre at the Teesworks site in North East England encapsulate not just the exciting potential of advanced technological development, but also the complex dance of industrial interests and regional planning. Teesworks, a sprawling former steelworks site, is currently a stage for competing visions of the future: on one side, an AI-driven technological hub potentially spearheaded by one of the world’s most powerful tech companies, and on the other, a major new hydrogen production facility proposed by BP.

The interest from Google in setting up an AI data centre could be transformative for the region. The local economy would likely see a significant uptick in construction jobs in the short term and more specialised roles in data management, structured cabling installation, and IT infrastructure upon completion. Furthermore, with the government designating Teesworks as an AI Growth Zone, the site's future as a nexus for technology and innovation seems promising. However, if Google finalises its presence on the site, it will require vast amounts of data cabling and a highly skilled workforce of data centre engineers to manage the complex technology infrastructure. Once work starts, there will undoubtedly be a struggle for labour, as such a development could become one of the largest infrastructure builds in the region. Much like the recent data centre project in Corsham, contractors may need to be sourced from outside the local area, with demand for digs, hotels, and Airbnbs rising sharply as the workforce is mobilised.

When could work start?

Although nothing has been confirmed, the likely timeline is beginning to take shape. A planning application for a 500,000 sqm facility at Teesworks was submitted in June 2025, and reports suggest negotiations with Google could be concluded before Christmas 2025. If that agreement is reached, 2026 would likely see detailed planning approvals, procurement, site preparation, and early infrastructure work. Major construction activity could realistically begin in late 2026 or early 2027, with phased completion and commissioning of data halls stretching into 2028 and beyond. This means the region’s construction, engineering, and data cabling workforce needs to prepare now, as competition for skilled labour will intensify once the project breaks ground.

Despite these enticing prospects, the ongoing negotiations highlight a broader conflict within sectors of the government and between major corporate entities. The tug-of-war between the supporters of the AI data centre and proponents of BP's blue-hydrogen plant illustrates the challenges that come with managing a site with such vast potential. The decisions made here will have long-term implications on the UK's industrial strategy and its ability to compete globally in both technology and energy sectors. Additionally, if BP's plan does not receive approval and they choose to contest the decision, the resultant delays could hinder progress not only for Teesworks but for broader industrial advancement in the UK.

This complex scenario underscores the critical need for skilled professionals in the construction, engineering, structured cabling, and data centre sectors. Recruitment within these areas must anticipate the need for a workforce capable of adapting to the rapidly evolving demands of both the renewable energy and technology markets. As regions like Teesworks look towards future-proof industries, the role of specialised recruitment and workforce development can’t be overstated. Data centre engineers, structured cabling specialists, and IT infrastructure professionals should watch these developments closely, as the outcomes will likely influence job opportunities and sector growth for years to come.

In conclusion, Google's potential establishment of an AI data centre at Teesworks marks a significant moment in UK industrial planning. Whether or not Google’s plans will come to fruition remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the UK's construction, data cabling, and technology sectors need to prepare to adapt to the evolving landscape of infrastructure that such large-scale projects will demand. Ensuring that the workforce is ready to meet these challenges will be paramount for tapping into the economic opportunities that such developments bring.