Adnams announces consultation for residents of Southwold and Reydon on rebuild of anaerobic digestion plant

Residents in and around Southwold are being invited to have their say on a brewery’s plans to rebuild a green energy facility.

Adnams is set to host a two-day consultation, alongside partner Bio Capital, for the proposed rebuild of its anaerobic digestion plant in Reydon.

The plant will be located on the same site as a facility built in 2010.

Those living in the area will be offered the chance to look at the plans and ask questions.

The plant will allow the firm to break down food waste and convert it into biogas.

This comes ahead of new laws mandating that businesses collect food waste separately from all households.

Suffolk currently lacks a facility to process food waste, with the brewer feeling it was ‘filling a void’ in the county.

Jenny Hanlon, chief executive of Adnams, said it was very pleased to push into 2025 with an important initiative for Suffolk.

She added: “With its ethos around sustainability and community, Adnams is excited to be driving forward the rebuild of its AD facility and providing homeowners locally with a solution around food waste recycling and renewable energy production.”

The gas generated by the plant would fuel the Adnams’ fleet of HGVs and its brewery, while also providing carbon dioxide for its beer.

The consultation is set to take place at Reydon Village Hall.

On Monday, January 27, a session will run from 6.30pm to 8.30pm, including a presentation and a Q&A.

On Tuesday, January 28, one session will take place from 4pm to 6pm, followed by a drop-in event from 7pm to 8.30pm.

Mick Fishwick, chief operating officer at Bio Capital, said initial feedback for the scheme was overwhelmingly positive.

He added: “This anaerobic digestion site represents a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions, recycling food waste, and supporting Suffolk’s climate emergency goals. Together, we are driving forward a greener, more sustainable future for the region.”