Plans to develop an anaerobic digestion facility at the former Skipton-on-Swale Airfield near Thirsk in England have been recommended for approval by North Yorkshire Council planners.

Advanced Fuel Partners has submitted proposals for a plant that would process up to 144,000 tonnes of agricultural waste annually to generate renewable biomethane and capture carbon dioxide.

The application is scheduled for scrutiny by councillors on 10 February, despite objections from nine local residents and Sandhutton Parish Council.

A planning report noted the site's suitability within the former RAF airfield, citing proximity to local agricultural feedstock sources and existing road infrastructure.

According to the developer, the facility would support the local agricultural economy, promote sustainable waste management, and provide alternatives to synthetic fertilisers, contributing to net zero targets.

Operational details

The 24-hour facility is expected to generate an average of 95 HGV movements per day, rising to 118 during peak periods. Site access would be via the A167 using the existing former airfield road, with junction widening planned to improve visibility.

Local objections have focused on HGV traffic impacts, noise, dust, light pollution, and the proposed operating hours. Sandhutton Parish Council has raised particular concerns about the effects on local residents from heavy goods vehicle movements.

The facility would utilise anaerobic digestion technology to convert agricultural waste streams into renewable biomethane for injection into the gas grid, alongside carbon dioxide capture operations.