A Spotlight on Corruption report titled Zoned Out claims the UK’s AI Growth Zone policy proceeded with minimal public consultation, privileging businesses over ordinary people, public-interest groups, and local communities.

The investigation argues the UK datacentre policy was developed without meetings with environmental NGOs, despite clear environmental implications.

From July 2024 to June 2026, Spotlight on Corruption analyzes UK government engagement on AI Growth Zones and datacentres, highlighting a pronounced engagement gap.

Local residents and community groups faced only two meetings after zone designations were announced, with one occurring on the designation day itself.

Chi Onwurah and other critics pressed for greater community input to ensure local benefits and inclusive decision-making for datacentre projects.

FOI requests show ministers, permanent secretaries, and directors general met 137 businesses, while senior officials met just two community groups and no environmental organisations.

Overall, the report portrays an imbalance in who gets a say in policies affecting where people live and how infrastructure is built.

A government spokesperson defended the policy, saying datacentres will create jobs, strengthen supply chains, and prioritize clean power and responsible water use, with community benefits considered via local planning and hosting authorities.

There was no national public consultation on the AI Growth Zone strategy, despite potential impacts on electricity, water use, and local communities.

Transparency concerns arise because unpaid advisers are not required to disclose meetings, potentially masking influence.

Environmental concerns include water and electricity use and emissions, with no national environmental and social impact assessments and no environmental groups on the Sustainability Working Group for 17 months.

Between July 2024 and September 2026, 38 senior officials and ministers moved to AI companies, suggesting a revolving door that may influence policy, especially around Growth Zones.