The digester would be able to convert up to 10,000 tonnes of sewerage, garden and biodegradable waste a year into power which would be used to fuel the homes with energy and heat. It would create a carbon neutral community, with any excess electricity fed into the National Grid.
The proposed scheme would also comprise a visitor centre with an eco classroom, a shop selling local produce, community allotments, an electric car-sharing scheme and a weekly community and farmers market' where residents can sell produce.
"Not only would the plant ensure that food and other green waste is not removed from the housing development but its capacity would mean a capability of taking all the green waste from Melton Council, to include that from the civic amenities site run by Leicestershire County Council," said HSSP Architects in a statement on behalf of landowner Eric Brown.
"The carbon footprint will be reduced by virtue of Melton Council not having to collect waste from the development, the travel distance for green waste from the borough brought into the site being reduced and the fertiliser provided to local farmers leading to a reduction in delivery miles," the statement said.
The Council is expected to consider the application over the summer.
