Villagers Launch Campaign Against Energy Plant

Villagers in Great Bowden have launched a campaign against plans to build an Anaerobic Digestion Plant.

The facility, which which would turn straw and chicken manure into gas, is proposed for a derelict site off Welham Lane.

Residents are concerned about potential smells, noise and traffic implications.

Over 200 people have signed a petition opposing the development and a public meeting will be held on Saturday, organised by Great Bowden Parish Council.

The company behind the plan, GMT biogas, say processes mean odour will be ‘negligible’ and full traffic and noise assessments have been submitted with the planning application.

Chris Attenborough is one of the villagers concerned:

Harborough MP Neil O’Brien launched the petition against the plant and spoke to HFM:

 

Saturday’s public meeting is taking place at Great Bowden Village Hall at 12pm and speakers will include Mr O’Brien and Cllr Phil Knowles, Leader of Harborough District Council.

Phil Greenaway from GMT biogas says the plan would bring a derelict site back into use and contribute towards green energy production.

Addressing concerns about odour, he told HFM the Great Bowden facility will not use food waste, unlike a similar facility in Rothwell which has led to complaints about smells:

The planning application will be considered by Leicestershire County Council.

Cllr Phil Knowles said: “In relation to this planning application I fully appreciate the level of public interest.

“If this was a decision for Harborough District Council I would have wanted to see this determined at planning committee. However, I’m advised that the decision will be taken by Leicestershire County Council. I would urge all comments be directed to them.

“I understand that some residents have left comments regarding this application on the HDC portal. I have asked that these persons be updated urgently so they know to contact the county council directly to ensure all comments and views submitted are noted and considered.”

You can search for details of this planning application using the reference number 2023/CM/0053/LCC directly on the county council planning portal at: https://leicestershire.planning-register.co.uk/