Rufus Data Centre Project
PUBLIC CONSULTATION
24th of Feb 2026 | 3pm - 7pm
Park Hotel, Rugby Park, Kilmarnock KA1 1UR
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3rd of Mar 2026 | 3pm - 7pm
Hurlford Community Centre, Cessnock Rd, Hurlford, Kilmarnock KA1 5DD
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11th of Mar 2026 | 3pm - 7pm
Galston Community Centre
34 Orchard St, Galston KA4 8EN
Note: It is our intention to hold further public events in the coming months after this initial round of three listed above.
Comments made to ILI Group are not formal representations to East Ayrshire Council if we submit a planning application there will be an opportunity to make formal representations on the application to the East Ayrshire Council.
We’re at the start —
and we want your feedback
This project is at a very early stage. We’re starting conversations now so local views can help shape the proposals as they develop.
Supporting local priorities
On other projects, we’ve supported community initiatives such as school transport, defibrillator programmes and local funding for community-led projects. We’re always open to discussing practical ways we can help, guided by local priorities.
Skills and jobs
Across our data centre projects, we work to maximise benefits for skills and employment, including training and pathways into roles created during construction and operation.
What will the project look like?
The proposals are at a very early stage, and the design and layout of the development will be influenced by consultation with the public and in consultation with stakeholders. We have identified a site which we believe is suitable and we will be undertaking a lot of technical assessments, investigations, and surveys which will all inform what the project looks like when it comes forward.
As the proposals develop and change we will present these to the community via this website or at in person public events, and you will have full access to the final proposals if and when a formal application is made. For now we would invite you to engage with us, and with this process, to help deliver a development that responds appropriately to the needs of the community.
What is the project?
- A new, state-of-the-art AI-focused data centre near Hulford called the Rufus Data Centre.
- The centre will provide the huge computing power needed to support artificial intelligence (AI) systems, now being used across healthcare, science, business, and everyday life.
- It will be built to the highest standards of efficiency, security, and sustainability with an aim to run on 100% renewable energy.
- The facility will represent the next generation of digital infrastructure; clean, modern, and future-ready.
What is a Data Centre?
- A data centre is a secure building that houses computer servers used to store, process, and manage digital information.
- These servers run everything from websites and cloud storage to artificial intelligence, streaming services, and business systems.
- Data centres are essential to modern life, supporting everything from online shopping and mobile apps to NHS systems and government services.
- They operate 24/7, ensuring the internet and digital tools work reliably, quickly, and securely.
- This facility aims to entirely powered by off-site renewable energy sources, making it part of the shift toward a greener, digital future.
Why is it needed?
- The rise of AI is creating a massive demand for secure and powerful computing across the UK and globally.
- There are currently not enough data centres in Scotland or the UK to support this growth.
- It supports long-term digital growth, job creation, and a cleaner, smarter economy.
Why in this location?
- The technical criteria for a data centre site are complex, and very few sites in Scotland have these necessary characteristics. Rufus is one such location.
- The development will be sensitively designed to minimise local disruption and will include landscaping to help it sit comfortably within environment.
What are the benefits?
- A major investment that brings hundreds of jobs during construction and skilled tech jobs when operating.
- Supports Scotland’s digital and net zero ambitions by building essential AI infrastructure using (off site) clean energy sources.
- Brings new opportunities for local businesses, suppliers, and young people through training, apprenticeships and future career pathways.
- Strengthens the UK’s position in the fast-growing AI and digital economy.
Who are ILI Group?
- Scottish Clean Energy Development Company
- Based in Hamilton, Lanarkshire
- Started in 2017
- Bringing Hyper Data Centres to Scotland
Location Plan
Indicative Layout Plan
