Scotland is increasing scrutiny of large-scale data-centre developments as demand for computing infrastructure grows rapidly alongside artificial intelligence and cloud services.

The move comes amid growing interest in hyperscale facilities capable of supporting AI workloads, cloud computing and large digital services. Scotland has become an increasingly important location for technology infrastructure, but major projects can raise questions around electricity demand, land use, water consumption and environmental impact.

The latest approach is expected to give authorities greater oversight of proposed hyperscale developments while Scotland works on its wider strategy for digital infrastructure.

Data centres have become increasingly important to the UK's technology economy as businesses deploy more artificial intelligence, cloud computing and data-intensive applications.

For Scotland, the challenge is balancing demand for advanced digital infrastructure with planning and environmental considerations. The issue is likely to remain significant as technology companies and infrastructure operators seek locations for the next generation of AI computing facilities.

The developments highlight how AI growth is beginning to reshape Britain's physical technology infrastructure, from data centres and electricity networks to regional planning.