On October 8, 12:30, at the CITY Institute/York University, Carr will talk on "Research directions and dilemmas in data center (sub)urban development" as part of the City Institute Research Seminar Series.
Abstract - The data centre industry is evolving rapidly, with new concepts such as hyperscales, megascales, exoscales, AI Growth Zones and AI Factories reshaping the geography and governance of digital infrastructure. Carr will provide an overview of key strands in the emerging literature on data centre development, examining how these trends intersect with wider debates in urban and regional planning, local governance, and the growing influence of Big Tech in shaping territorial development. Drawing on a range of current research projects and activities, the presentation will explore the social, economic and spatial implications of large-scale digital infrastructure. Following the overview, the session will open into a roundtable discussion, inviting attendees to share their own perspectives, experiences and research interests related to the development of data centres and their impacts across different scales and contexts.
