Plans for a large data centre in Sydney's Lane Cove suburb have been cancelled after residents and groups mounted fierce opposition.
The $1.2 billion Goodman Group project, dubbed Project Mars, would have been a 90-megawatt facility just 20 metres from the nearest home. The company formally withdrew its planning application last week.
Supporters say the site would boost the Pacific region's AI capacity, while opponents highlight massive demands on water and electricity, and the strain on quiet neighbourhoods.
During a public consultation the proposal received 374 submissions—only nine in favour—making it the most‑commented data‑centre bid in Australia's history.
Goodman cited evolving policy and the community's concerns in its decision, noting that a new fast‑track scheme announced by the New South Wales government would only apply to projects that meet strict environmental and resource standards.
Local MP Anthony Roberts called the outcome a "common‑sense win" for the Lane Cove West residents, arguing that developers must find suitable sites before bringing proposals forward.
The case underscores the tension between the growth of AI infrastructure and the protection of local environments across Australia.
Residents have staged rallies and put up placards such as "No Goodman Data Centre" outside their houses, illustrating public backing for the cancellation.
