Construction work has begun today (Monday 26 January 2026) on Shropshire Council’s new biochar plant at Coder Road Business Park in Ludlow.
Initial on‑site activity has focused on demolishing and removing elements of the former anaerobic digestion (AD) plant, which has been unused for several years. This will make way for a new 11 by 15 metre building, set discreetly to the rear of the existing structure, where feedstock material will be dried and stored before being converted into biochar.
Taking shape: the new biochar plant.
Contractors, overseen by the council’s joint‑venture partner, Biodynamic Carbon Ltd will start to excavate for the foundations. Contractors will then install a steel frame and roof, followed by a concrete floor and then cladding of the elevations. Construction is expected to be completed by the end of February 2026.
Rob Wilson, Shropshire 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.
“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 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.”
Biochar is produced through pyrolysis, the heating of biomass in the absence of oxygen. This converts waste wood and other low‑grade plant material into a stable form of carbon, in the form of biochar: Biochar,
- Captures and stores carbon, helping tackle climate change.
- Can be used as a soil improver, enhancing crop and soil health.
- Helps filter pollutants from water.
- Improves poultry hygiene when used in poultry litter.
- Is increasingly used in construction materials.
Once operational, the Ludlow plant is expected to produce around 1,000 tonnes of biochar per year, replicating the success of the council’s first unit near Welshpool.
While the council continues its wider improvement journey, investing capital funding into projects that provide a long‑term financial return remains an essential part of becoming more sustainable. The biochar plant:
- Will generate new income for the council through sales of biochar and carbon credits.
- Will recycle locally‑sourced biomass materials
- Has repurposed the former AD facility which had ceased operation.
With the building due for completion by late February, installation of the pyrolysis equipment will follow. The plant is expected to become operational later in 2026, contributing to Shropshire Council’s climate goals and creating a new income stream to support essential services.
The green growth programme is something which is being championed by Shropshire Council and Powys County Council as part of the Marches Forward Partnership.
