Acorn Bioenergy has submitted plans to build a significant anaerobic digestion (AD) plant on approximately five acres of land west of the A338, currently used as a motorcycle track. This proposed facility aims to use agricultural waste to produce renewable biomethane and fertiliser, generating sufficient energy to heat 7,600 homes. If approved, it would stand as one of the largest AD plants in the UK. However, the proposal has met significant local opposition.
A local community group, the Vale Anaerobic Digester Objection (VADO), represents 162 households in Denchworth, Grove, Wantage, and the Hanneys, as well as properties within 500 metres of the proposed site. The group argues that the project conflicts with the District Council’s local plan. They have expressed concerns about the private road connecting the plant to the A338, which is narrow and includes just two passing places. Additionally, this route crosses a bridge over Letcombe Brook, a rare chalk stream, further heightening concerns about environmental and infrastructure impacts.
According to transport data provided by Acorn Bioenergy, the development is expected to add an average of 60 vehicle movements per day, increasing to up to 140 during the harvest months of July and August. West Hanney Parish Council has raised concerns regarding the capacity of both the private road and the A338 to handle this level of heavy goods vehicle (HGV) traffic. They also highlighted the safety risks at the junction connecting the access road to the A338.
Residents of West Hanney and East Hanney have additional concerns, particularly about potential odour issues arising from the plant and its digestate lagoons. Given the villages’ downwind location, any unpleasant smells could significantly impact the quality of life for local residents. Wantage and Grove campaign groups have also voiced opposition, stating that transporting biomethane to a national grid injection point compromises the operation’s “green credentials.”
Acorn Bioenergy has refuted these concerns, asserting that the anaerobic digestion process is fully sealed and produces odourless biomethane. The company has committed to using the A338 for most transport routes to reduce impacts on nearby villages, and it plans road improvements to mitigate safety risks. Specifically, Acorn has proposed upgrading the Cow Lane/A338 junction, widening the access road to accommodate two-way traffic, and adding five additional passing bays.
Acorn claims that the facility will boost the local agricultural economy by investing in regional feedstocks and argues that such a plant must be centrally located for logistical reasons. They emphasise their commitment to engage and collaborate with the community to address concerns, including safety upgrades and broader mitigation efforts.
For those interested in staying updated on local developments or raising their objections, consider connecting with relevant support groups and services. Additionally, local businesses, community groups, and organisations are encouraged to submit a free directory listing and promote their activities to the wider Wantage community.
