Plymouth Township Receives Zoning Hearing Board Application for Proposed Data Center
Plymouth Township has received an application to the Township’s Zoning Hearing Board (ZHB) seeking a special exception to develop a data center at the former steel mill site at 900 Conshohocken Road. This marks the applicant’s second submission for the site as a prior application was withdrawn.
The property is in the Heavy Industrial (HI) Zoning District. While many industrial uses are permitted by right, the Zoning Ordinance allows similar uses to be considered by the ZHB as a special exception. The applicant is requesting approval under this provision, which requires the ZHB to determine whether the proposed use meets the ordinance’s standards and intent.
Under Pennsylvania law, a special exception is not automatic; the applicant must demonstrate compliance with specific criteria. The ZHB, acting as a quasi-judicial body, will evaluate evidence and testimony before rendering a decision.
Pursuant to the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (MPC), a hearing must be scheduled within 60 days of the application. The Township intends to use the full timeframe to ensure proper notice, thorough preparation, and accommodation of anticipated public interest. A special ZHB meeting will be scheduled and publicly advertised.
Township officials recognize the strong public interest in this proposal. Township Council remains focused on protecting the health, safety, and welfare of residents while carefully evaluating the application. The Township is committed to a transparent, fair, and legally compliant process. While this project will have implications for the township, we recognize that its impacts may be more pronounced for residents nearest to the facility, and we are working to mitigate those effects.
The Zoning Hearing Board process represents the first step in the overall review. If the application is approved, the applicant would still be required to proceed through the Township’s land development process, which includes additional technical review, public meetings, and approvals.
Residents will have the opportunity to participate in the ZHB proceedings, including providing testimony and evidence in accordance with established procedures.
Additional information, including hearing details, will be posted on the Township’s website as it becomes available.
*****