The decision comes despite objections from local emergency services and the area’s police and crime commissioner.
The facility, proposed by Stenergy Worcester, will be built on derelict land near the joint headquarters of West Mercia Police and Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service.
Both emergency services had objected to the scheme due to its proximity to their headquarters, alongside John Campion, who also raised concerns over the proposed development.
The anaerobic digestion biomethane plant (ADBP) is designed to process around 48,500 tonnes of food waste each year, converting it into renewable biogas for injection into the national grid.
Stenergy Worcester said the approval marks a “major milestone” for the business and clears the way for construction of what it described as a landmark renewable energy facility for the county.
The company said the plant will support the UK’s net zero ambitions by reducing carbon emissions, improving energy security and providing a local solution for unavoidable food waste.
Keith Warburton, chief executive of Stenergy Worcester, said: “This afternoon’s decision is outstanding news for Stenergy Worcester and for the county as a whole.
“We are absolutely delighted that planning permission has been granted and would like to thank everyone who has contributed to bringing the project to this important milestone.
“This has been a long journey involving an enormous amount of dedication, technical expertise and constructive engagement with planners, stakeholders and the local community.
“Today’s decision means we can now move forward with confidence and begin delivering a facility that will make a lasting contribution to Worcestershire’s green future.”
According to the company, the Hindlip plant will play an important role in supporting the rollout of mandatory household food waste collections, while strengthening Worcestershire’s waste and environmental infrastructure.
Warburton added: “This is more than a planning approval; it is the start of an exciting new chapter. We are proud to be investing in technology that turns waste into a valuable resource and delivers long-term environmental and economic benefits.
“We look forward to working with our partners to bring this pioneering project into operation.”
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