I strongly object to the proposal for a maize-fed anaerobic digestion (AD) plant near Thriplow and Heathfield. Though claimed to support renewable energy, the development would cause extensive harm to the environment, public health, rural character, and local infrastructure.

The plant would emit unpleasant odours and harmful gases, degrade air quality, and pose health risks to vulnerable residents. Increased HGV traffic on already dangerous roads would worsen congestion and road safety.

The site lies in or near the Green Belt and would industrialise open farmland with visually intrusive infrastructure. Growing maize and spreading digestate have documented environmental impacts, including soil degradation, water pollution, and ammonia emissions.

There are significant safety risks from gas storage, explosion potential, and inadequate technological safeguards. The plant offers minimal local benefit and risks future expansion, increased industrialisation, and enforcement challenges.

Similar proposals have already been rejected elsewhere on similar grounds. For these reasons, I urge South Cambridgeshire District Council to refuse this application in full.

Link to the planning application:  https://applications.greatercambridgeplanning.org/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=summary&keyVal=SXAD4SDXMS700