Data centre provider NextDC has announced that it gained formal development approval to start constructing its purpose-built data centre, called M1, in Port Melbourne.

Engineering design consultancy Arup has been engaged to lead the technical design of the upcoming data centre, which will provide around 6000 sq. m. of space once it is completely opened. Fifty per cent of facility’s initial 2000 sq. m. opening has already been allocated to Harbor MSP for seven years.

NextDC’s CEO Bevan Slattery said that the upcoming facility at Melbourne would be the biggest carrier & systems integrator, neutral data centre in Victoria.

Speaking on the M1 facility, Slattery said, “We are offering customers critical connectivity, flexibly, scalability, security and a low carbon footprint.”

Glen Morcom, Former building & electrical services manager at Crown Casino, has been named as the project & facilities manager.

Development of the project will proceed in April this year once Energex, electricity provider, completes priority projects in Queensland.

Company’s Brisbane data centre was delayed due to Yasi cyclone, while its Sydney data centre is scheduled to be launched this very month.