Plans to build anaerobic digester near Whitchurch revealed
Another energy plant could be built in Shropshire, new plans have revealed.
A proposal has been submitted to create an anaerobic digester at Sandy Lane Farm, Prees, near Whitchurch.
The plant would be used to process slurry from cows.
A statement submitted in support of the application says: "The farm consists of a 300 strong milking herd. Slurry handling, therefore, is a major cost and technical preoccupation for livestock farmers.
"For a growing number of farmers, this has led to the installation of anaerobic digesters, working with a technology that not only takes care of their slurry but also provides an easier-to-handle fertiliser and provides a stake in the renewable energy business.
"The farm has increased livestock numbers over recent years which has prompted the need for the addition of larger modern agricultural buildings on the farming unit to replace inadequate, out of date buildings.
"The new buildings proposed would also allow the farm to increase its dairy herd in the future.
"Slurry waste is an increasing issue however, by placing an AD installation on the farm this waste and its CH₄ emission are converted into green energy and heat, which can be used on the farm. The residual manure can be used as fertiliser.
"The building will be located to the south of the existing range of buildings and will provide a 19.9 metre diameter container for the processing of slurry from cows.
"The proposed combined buildings are 24.6m long with a proposed height to the top of the container of 12m.
"The location of the building against the backdrop of the existing farm helps to ensure it blends into the built environment of the farm. The scale of the building is necessary to enable the applicant to process the required amount of slurry."
The statement adds the site of the proposed plant is set back from the roadside and is screened.
The development is one of a number put forward for a greenfield site in the north of the county.
Other plants have been given permission in places such as Woodseaves, near Market Drayton, and Wem in recent years.
Shropshire Council hopes to make a final decision on the scheme by December 12.
People can comment on the proposal as part of consultation into the development by visiting the council website.
