Susan Boyle, the Britain's Got Talent runner-up, has become embroiled in a planning dispute after relocating to Larbert, near Falkirk, where a proposed AI data centre has sparked widespread opposition. Around 200 residents gathered to protest the development by Aptura at Glenbervie Business Park, which would house a 300MW facility, raising fears of noise, air pollution, and increased traffic.
Background of Boyle's Housing Journey
Boyle, who famously remained in the former council house she grew up in despite earning millions, purchased the property for £65,000. She later bought a £300,000 "Posh House" but struggled to feel at home, eventually allowing her niece to live there. She moved back into her council house and purchased the adjacent property for £110,000, combining them into her dream home. In March 2026, she relocated again to Larbert, where her assistant Geraldine Easton resides.
Protest Details and Concerns
Boyle was pictured holding a placard reading: "Say no to Larbert AI data centre. Stop selling Scotland to big tech." Geraldine Easton, Boyle's manager, stated: "People need to actually realise that these things go so much further than just what they are. It is the impact on everybody all around. The bottom line is these are huge hyper data centres and they are going to take up all these beautiful places in Scotland. They are putting them in populated areas. Our children come first. We are right across from a hospital and this is going to draw up energy and water."
Steve Hinge of the Forth Valley Climate Action Hub added: "There are so many unknowns. There are so many concerns and questions that as yet have not been answered. The residents here really feel it is a carbon emitter. It is using diesel generators and huge resources like water." The proposed site is close to homes and the Forth Valley Royal Hospital, intensifying local opposition.
