CONSTRUCTION is under way on a new plant designed to capture carbon.
Shropshire Council’s biochar facility is being developed at Coder Road Business Park in Ludlow, with initial work focused on demolishing parts of a former anaerobic digestion (AD) plant.
Biochar is created through pyrolysis, which heats biomass without oxygen to form a stable carbon product.
It can be used to store carbon, improve soil health, filter water, and even enhance poultry hygiene when used in poultry litter.
The Ludlow plant is expected to produce around 1,000 tonnes of biochar per year.
Construction is expected to be completed by the end of February 2026.
Rob Wilson, the council’s cabinet member for transport and economic growth, said: "The start of construction marks an important stage in the development of this project and, perhaps more importantly, our investment in our green economy.
"This new site builds on the success of our first plant near Welshpool.
"Shropshire Council has taken a lead within the local authority sector on developing biochar and encouragingly, we’ve had significant interest from other councils and organisations wanting to invest in the technology and our Biodynamic Carbon company.
"The process offers huge environmental benefits – locking in carbon, reducing emissions and creating a valuable product – while also generating income that helps protect essential local services."
Mr Wilson said the facility will not impact nearby businesses or homes.
He said: "The building is relatively small and tucked behind existing structures next to the A49, so we do not anticipate any disruption for local residents or nearby businesses."
Shropshire Council’s joint‑venture partner, Biodynamic Carbon Ltd, is overseeing the project.
Following building completion, the pyrolysis equipment will be installed.
The plant is expected to become operational later in 2026.
The project is part of the green growth programme supported by Shropshire Council and Powys County Council through the Marches Forward Partnership.
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