Despite objections from over 100 people, plans are proceeding to construct a new biogas renewable energy facility. The facility, an anaerobic digestion plant slated for Streetly Hall Farm near West Wickham, will generate biogas for injection into the local gas network.
The developer of the project highlighted its potential to safeguard jobs at the farm while producing renewable energy. Cambridgeshire County Council granted approval for the plant at a recent planning committee meeting. The facility is expected to process 60,000 to 75,000 tonnes of agricultural waste and energy crops annually, primarily sourced from local farms.
During anaerobic digestion, these crops and waste will yield biomethane and carbon dioxide. The biomethane will be distributed through the local gas network, while the carbon dioxide will find use in the food industry elsewhere. Chris Coby, the project applicant, emphasized the facility’s importance in stabilizing the farm’s operations following disruptions caused by factors like Brexit and the Ukraine conflict.
Coby noted efforts to address community concerns, including scaling down the plant’s size from its original proposal and implementing screening measures. Despite objections, which included issues about landscape impact and the construction’s effect on a Roman road bridleway, the project received support from the planning committee.
Vice Chairman Davis Sargeant of West Wickham Parish Council expressed disappointment over the dismissal of objections raised by hundreds of individuals and several parish councils. Safety concerns regarding a proposed new junction onto the A1307 were cited as a major point of contention among locals.
