Auchtertool village of 200 homes faces huge data centre plan, sparking 1,600 objections

The proposed Cato data centre would cover an area larger than 100 football pitches. (Photo: Daily Mail) Residents of a tiny Scottish village have launched a fierce campaign against plans to build what has been described as the world's second-largest data centre on their doorstep.The proposed Cato data centre in Auchtertool, Fife, would occupy a site larger than 100 football pitches and sit next to a village of around 200 homes.Locals fear the huge development could fundamentally change the character of their community, with concerns ranging from noise and light pollution to flooding, environmental impact and the potential effect on animals.More than 1,600 objections have reportedly been submitted against the plans, while protest banners have appeared outside homes, in the village park and on residents' cars.For many people living in Auchtertool, however, the debate is about more than a major infrastructure project. They fear losing the quiet rural life they chose when they moved to the village.‘Our peace is being threatened’Speaking to the Daily Mail, Fiona Stewart, 53, who lives at Wilmar Cottage overlooking the proposed site, said she was shocked when she first saw the scale of t...