Construction bulletin: Focus on data centres

Welcome to the December 2025 edition of our Global Construction Bulletin. In this edition our global team explores the rise of data centres, including the associated risks and opportunities for industry stakeholders, as well as key predictions for 2026 from HKA.

Data centres are now the backbone of the digital economy, driving innovation and supporting critical infrastructure worldwide. With global investment projected to reach nearly USD7 trillion by 2030, construction activity is booming across all major regions. However, this rapid expansion brings significant risks, particularly around construction disputes, such as aggressive delivery timelines, supply chain constraints and shortages in appropriate expertise.

This edition highlights the importance of robust project management, early engagement with tenants, securing supply chains, and clear contract drafting to build resilience and manage risks effectively. As the market continues to expand, understanding and addressing these challenges is essential for successful delivery and long-term value.

The DLA Piper Construction team provides regional insights into the nuanced complexities and their commercial realities across key jurisdictions, including Germany, Australia, the UK and South Africa. We hope that you find these insights helpful. If you would like to understand how best to navigate the local data centre landscape in your jurisdiction, please do get in touch with our team.