Info session about plans for biochar production in Ludlow

Shropshire Council is inviting residents and businesses to find out more plans for a biochar plant on the outskirts of Ludlow.

The council is investing £2 million in locally manufactured biochar producing pyrolysis plants. The technology has been around for many years but its potential to create biochar to sequester carbon has only recently been identified. Investment in the technology is set to accelerate a new green economy for Shropshire and the Marches Forward Partnership area.

The council’s first investment is now in place for one pyrolysis unit, currently being built by Woodtek Engineering Ltd on Caebardd farm in Powys. It is expected that this will be operational later this year (2024).

However, the council also has a second site under consideration for biochar production at the former anaerobic digestion (AD) plant on Coder Road Business Park, on the outskirts of Ludlow. It hopes to submit a planning application for this site at the end of November 2024.

Ian Nellins, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for climate change, environment and transport, said:

“The creation of biochar is an innovative and sustainable way to reduce net carbon emissions and create value from waste. We’re therefore excited to be making such significant progress.

“We know it’s new to many, so we’re inviting anyone who’s interested to come along to Ludlow Library to find out more about the benefits of biochar, our ambitions, and answer any questions you may have.”

The event will take place at Ludlow library from 2pm until 5pm on November 6th.