Ludlow Town Council has formally objected to Shropshire Council’s proposal to convert a former anaerobic digester into a biocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More production facility at Ludlow Business Park. The plant would process imported green waste, wood, and compost materials into biochar using pyrolysisPyrolysis is a thermochemical process that converts waste biomass into bio-char, bio-oil, and pyro-gas. It offers significant advantages in waste valorization, turning low-value materials into economically valuable resources. Its versatility allows for tailored products based on operational conditions, presenting itself as a cost-effective and efficient More technology. The project is part of a £2 million investment in biochar production, with the first facility already under development in Powys.

During a recent meeting, town councillors voiced concerns about potential environmental and community impacts. They questioned the adequacy of an ecological survey conducted for the application, noting that it did not sufficiently assess the effects on local bird populations. Councillor Beverley Waite criticized the study, stating, “They say, ‘we think it will not do any damage.’ Well, ‘don’t think’ is not good enough.”

Additional concerns included possible air pollution, particularly sulphur dioxide emissions, and increased traffic congestion, especially on Parrys Road, where large delivery lorries could disrupt residents’ daily lives. Councillor Viv Parry warned, “They will be coming at 8 o’clock in the morning with two great lorries, and that will absolutely murder the people who live in the houses around there.”

While Tony Higgins from EnviroConsult assured that impacts such as dust, odours, and noise would be mitigated and meet World Health Organization guidelines, the council remained unconvinced.

Public comments on the proposal (reference 25/00309/FUL) are open until February 26.

Sources

• Town council objects to waste recycling plant plan (BBC)
• Ludlow Town Council objects to plans for green waste recycling plant (Shropshire Star)