Fresh Consultation on Controversial Great Bowden Energy Scheme
Written by HFM News on 8th July 2026
A new public consultation has been launched after changes were made to controversial plans for a green energy facility near Great Bowden.
The company behind the proposed anaerobic digestion plant has revised the scheme so the pipeline connecting the site to the gas network would now be installed entirely underground, removing the need for a construction compound.
The plant is earmarked for the site of a former mushroom farm
More than 300 objections have been submitted to the plans for the former mushroom farm off Welham Lane, which are expected to go before councillors later this year.
Leicestershire County Council says further information has also been provided on ecology and odour modelling.
Hundreds of residents are opposed to the plan
The revised plans would see the pipeline run beneath Welham Road and Welham Lane, with the work carried out by Cadent Gas under permitted development rights.
Despite being recommended for approval by planning officers last year, councillors deferred the application to allow more information to be gathered on its impact on Hursley Park Country Park and local highways.
Residents have until 14 July to submit further comments on the updated application.
