Thousands of people opposed to data centres have marched through Edinburgh as campaigners called for a “national conversation” on proposed plans.
Campaigners said the Scottish Government has so far “failed to explain” why AI data centres are needed in Scotland.
Thousands marched down the Royal Mile on Saturday and gathered outside the Scottish Parliament in the demonstration.
More than 80 organisations and groups supported the march, including community campaigners affected by AI data centre proposals in their areas, climate organisations, trade unions, artists and anti-poverty charities.
Take a look at some of the images from the protest in our gallery above.
5. People taking part in a protest against hyperscale AI data centres in Edinburgh, in response to proposals for for than 20 large-scale data centres in Scotland, with protesters hoping the Scottish Government will take action against such plans. Picture date: Saturday November 14, 2026.
Friends of the Earth Scotland senior campaigner Kim Pratt said she had been told an estimated 6,000 people had turned up to the protest. | PA
6. People taking part in a protest against hyperscale AI data centres in Edinburgh, in response to proposals for for than 20 large-scale data centres in Scotland, with protesters hoping the Scottish Government will take action against such plans. Picture date: Saturday November 14, 2026.
Protestors held banners and placards as they marched to the Scottish Parliament. | PA
7. People taking part in a protest against hyperscale AI data centres in Edinburgh, in response to proposals for for than 20 large-scale data centres in Scotland, with protesters hoping the Scottish Government will take action against such plans. Picture date: Saturday November 14, 2026.
People taking part in a protest against hyperscale AI data centres in Edinburgh, in response to proposals for for than 20 large-scale data centres in Scotland | PA
8. People taking part in a protest against hyperscale AI data centres in Edinburgh, in response to proposals for for than 20 large-scale data centres in Scotland, with protesters hoping the Scottish Government will take action against such plans. Picture date: Saturday November 14, 2026.
There are 23 proposals for AI data centres of different sizes and in various stages of planning across Scotland. Many communities have opposed the plans. | PA