Firm behind Wisbech mega incinerator buys nine-acre orchard

The firm behind plans for a controversial mega incinerator for Wisbech has announced it has bought a nine-acre orchard as part of its commitment to wildlife.

MVV has announced it has purchased the orchard as it moves towards the construction of its Medworth Energy from Waste Combined Heat and Power Project (EfW) on land off Algores Way in early 2025.

The orchard will be retained and used to improve wildlife on the site.

The project company, Medworth CHP Ltd, has committed to delivering a minimum of 10% biodiversity net gain as part of the development. This will include habitat creation and enhancements, both on the main EfW site and at other locations.

Purchasing the land to the southeast side of New Drove, Wisbech, which currently includes an orchard, is the first step.

MVV’s managing director, Paul Carey, said: “We are working with our ecologists to develop a long-term organic management plan. We want to improve the hedgerows for wildlife, create new habitats instead of having a single crop growing, and allow the soil to recover and support a greater variety of native wildflower species.”

MVV announced that it had secured Development Consent for its Medworth project, in February of this year. Subsequently, an Environmental Permit was issued by the Environment Agency in May since when work has been going on to prepare for the start of construction.