Adnams is planning to rebuild its Anaerobic Digestion (AD) facility in Reydon as part of a major drive to reach net zero.

The Southwold-based brewery and hospitality group has partnered with sustainable energy company Bio Capital to deliver the project - which it says will help towards Suffolk’s longer term climate goals.

The site - which was originally launched in 2010 - was closed some years ago by the original funders because it under-performed.

But successful redevelopment of the facility would see it fully in service ahead of incoming legislation set to require local authorities around the UK to collect food waste separately from all households, says Adnams.

It points out that Suffolk currently lacks a dedicated facility to process food waste through anaerobic digestion.

It believes the partnership initiative would fill a "critical void" and provide the region with infrastructure to process organic waste locally, while cutting landfill reliance and carbon emissions.

The Southwold company has scooped three Queen's Awards for its sustainability efforts.

The facility would create local jobs, while providing green fuel for the company’s fleet of HGVs, green gas to the Adnams brewery and green CO2 for the brewery process, it says.

Adnams and Bio Capital will be holding a period of open consultation during which local people can visit representatives of the companies, learn more about the project and view images of the proposed facility.

Events will take place on Tuesday, October 8, and Wednesday, October 9, at Southwold Arts Centre, between 5.30pm and 7.30pm.

Chief executive Jenny Hanlon said: “It is well known that at the heart of Adnams is a very strong sense of responsibility around sustainability, climate and community.

“We are excited by the thought that this will help all homeowners in the community to take major strides on their personal journey around achieving net zero. Their own household waste would be being put to a great onward use.

“A new AD facility at our Reydon site would become a cornerstone of Suffolk’s wider sustainability efforts and will integrate seamlessly with future waste regulations, providing a solution for food waste recycling and renewable energy production.

“It will have long-term benefits for the local economy by creating new job opportunities, and positioning Suffolk as a leader in the renewable energy sector.”

The company was placing "a great deal" of emphasis on public consultations and educational initiatives as it takes the next steps in the process, she added.

CGI of proposed AD plant at Reydon (Image: Bio Capital)

“We want to ensure local residents understand the benefits of the AD facility and we are keen to hear all ideas about collaboration and creative celebration for this initiative as we move forward.”

Mick Fishwick, chief operating officer at Bio Capital, said: “We’re delighted to partner with Adnams on this vital project, which reflects our shared commitment to sustainability and renewable energy.

“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.”

Jenny Hanlon (Adnams)To find out more about the AD facility, the timings of the consultation, and your opportunity to have your say, go to Home - Bio Capital (bio-capital.co.uk)

Mick Fishwick (Image: Bio Capital)