Activists block Microsoft data centre construction site in Amsterdam

Demonstrators gained access to the construction site in Amsterdam on Wednesday, staging a direct action against Microsoft's planned data centre development in the Dutch capital. The protesters, representing environmental and housing rights groups, occupied the location to draw attention to their concerns about the project's resource demands and broader implications for the region.

Activists have raised alarm over the data centre's projected water and electricity consumption, citing environmental strain during a period of climate pressure on the Netherlands. Housing advocates have also joined demonstrations, arguing that land use for corporate infrastructure diverts space needed for affordable residential development amid Amsterdam's housing shortage.

The occupation marks an intensification of resistance to the project, which Microsoft has positioned as part of its European artificial intelligence infrastructure expansion. The company has not immediately responded to requests for comment regarding the protest action.

Local authorities were reportedly present at the site as the demonstration unfolded. The incident reflects broader European tensions between technology companies' data centre expansion plans and community concerns over environmental sustainability and housing accessibility.