Plans to significantly expand the Mepal anaerobic digester (AD) plant near Chatteris have prompted strong objections from Chatteris Town Council and nearby residents, citing concerns over traffic, odour and biodiversity impacts.
The planning application, submitted to Fenland District Council, seeks permission for a major extension to the existing facility off Iretons Way, including eight new digesters and extensive additional infrastructure.
The council has described the proposal as an “enormous extension” to a site it says already causes congestion, dirty roads and safety risks on the A142 and through the town.
In a formal objection, the council warned that increased heavy vehicle movements could worsen road damage and congestion, particularly with construction of a nearby reservoir also expected to put pressure on local infrastructure.
Odour was raised as a continuing issue, with councillors arguing that promised mitigation from earlier approvals has not been effective and that the expansion would bring the site closer to homes.
While recommending refusal, the council said it expects the scheme to be approved and is therefore calling for significant Section 106 contributions for Chatteris and Manea.
Suggested measures include more frequent road cleaning, average speed cameras, a new footpath and cycleway along the A142, and improvements to the Slade End roundabout.
Residents living closest to the plant have also objected, raising concerns over noise, lighting, loss of privacy, security incidents and property damage linked to increased industrial activity. They are seeking stronger landscaping, inward-facing lighting and a comprehensive security plan.
Biodiversity impacts form a central part of the debate. A Biodiversity Net Gain assessment submitted with the application concludes the development would result in a substantial loss of onsite habitat units, meaning the required 10 per cent net gain cannot be achieved within the site boundary.
The developer proposes delivering biodiversity gains on nearby land under the same ownership, secured through a long-term Section 106 agreement.
Fenland District Council will now assess the application, taking into account technical reports, statutory requirements and the scale of local opposition.
Source: Cambs News
Mepal anaerobic digester expansion faces objections over traffic odour biodiversity
