PLANS for a waste digester have “horrified” neighbours.

Grove Farm in Milton Hill near Didcot wants to build the anaerobic digester facility on its orchard.

But neighbouring firms and residents oppose the “outrageous” scheme, fearing for the rural peace of the area.

The owner of Core Business Centre, opposite the farm on Milton Hill, said: “We have created an environment that is peaceful and tranquil due to the surroundings of the fruit farm, and our building is now full with 11 companies renting office space.

“This environment would totally change if this development went ahead with noise, pollution and traffic congestion.

“This is a totally outrageous proposal with little time given to residents to fully consider such an impact on the community.”

Energy company M2G Renewable submitted a planning application to Vale of White Horse District Council on November 15.

Milton Hill resident Alan Whichello wrote to the Vale: “This is a quiet, small residential road leading to private dwellings.

“The odours from the facility and the noise and pollution from lorries would be unacceptable. Our house prices would be devalued and I would seek substantial compensation should it go ahead.”

An anonymous resident was “horrified” there had been no attempt at consultation.

A decision is expected by March.

Tom Bland, consultant for Enzygo, who prepared the plans for M2G, said: “Our application has full technical assessments which deal with environmental issues as required by the Vale.”