People keen to learn more about biogas plant plans

Adnams says Suffolk lacks a dedicated facility to process food waste through anaerobic digestion and its "partnership initiative would fill this critical void"

People living close to a proposed green gas facility say they are keen to learn more details about the scheme.

The Southwold-based brewery Adnams wants to "rebuild" its anaerobic digestion (AD) plant in Reydon on the site of a former one built in 2010.

The company has teamed up with sustainable energy firm Bio Capital to process food waste.

Adnams says the project will create jobs and provide green fuel and is urging anyone with questions about the scheme to attend information events being held in October.

The brewery said the 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.

Adnams says the anaerobic digestion project 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"

Resident Paul Bowling, who lives close to the proposed site, said he was eager to hear more about the plans.

"I will go along to the information events to find out more facts," he said.

"I want to see the details because I want to know what's actually going to be put in the facility."

Other residents told the BBC they thought the community would be keen to hear more specific information about the proposals.

'Achieving net zero'

Adnams and Bio Capital are set to stage a period of open consultation and both firms said they were "eager to involve the community in conversation".

Public events will take place on 8 and 9 October at Southwold Arts Centre, where people will be able to speak to representatives and see images of the proposed facility.

Adnams said the scheme would create local jobs, while also providing green fuel for the company’s fleet of HGVs, green gas to its brewery and green CO2 for the brewery process.

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."

Referring to the forthcoming consultation period, she said: "We are placing a great deal of emphasis on public consultations and educational initiatives as we take our next steps in this process.

"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, Bio Capital, said: "We’re delighted to partner with Adnams on this vital project, which reflects our shared commitment to sustainability and renewable energy."