Controversial gas plant approved despite opposition from Blunsdon residents
Narrow council vote permits ambitious methane production project
In a closely contested vote, Swindon Borough Council's planning committee has granted permission for Rivan Industries Ltd to establish a groundbreaking artificial gas plant on a field north of Blunsdon. The decision was met with strong emotional reactions, as calls of “shame” and disbelief followed the announcement.
The vote passed by a margin of four to three, allowing Rivan Industries to proceed with their innovative project that aims to produce methane gas through a novel method of processing limestone and carbon dioxide. The site will feature concrete hard standing and 22 shipping containers housing the firm’s new technology, complemented by solar panels and additional infrastructure including a large water tank, gas storage domes, and security systems.
Over 20 residents from Blunsdon were present at the meeting, advocating for the proposal's rejection. All three Blunsdon & Highworth ward councillors opposed the plan, drawing attention to potential ecological and visual impacts.
Councillor Nick Gradiner questioned the accuracy of certain details in the planners' report suggesting approval, proposing the matter be deferred for further investigation. Councillor Steve Weisinger warned of the “irreversible” harm to the countryside, highlighting concerns about traffic on Little Roase Lane and the safety of the new technology involved.
Stephanie Taylor, a local resident, argued that the plant represents industrial creep and would harm the rural setting visible from prominent sites like Castle Hill iron age fort. She said:
- “We can protect the countryside and also promote renewable green energy, they are not mutually exclusive.”
Despite objections, Rivan Industries’ head of land and planning, Annabelle MacGregor, assured the committee that regulatory bodies have not raised safety concerns, highlighting the need for new gas solutions to replace fossil fuels as part of decarbonisation efforts.
MacGregor emphasised the minimal landscape change and referenced planning policies that endorse renewable energy production. The committee was reminded that the site had previously received approval for a solar farm, reinforcing the argument for its suitability for energy development.
Ultimately, the proposal to refuse the scheme was defeated in the vote. This paved the way for Rivan Industries’ methane gas production technology, which involves heating limestone to release carbon dioxide and separating hydrogen from water collected on-site. These will combine to produce methane gas suitable for the national grid.
The decision disappointed the gathered residents, who had hoped for a different outcome. Work on the project is set to begin following the approval granted by Swindon Borough Council.