Chemical site flood defences given green light

A major infrastructure project aiming to boost flood defences has been given the go-ahead.

Hartlepool Borough Council's planning committee has backed plans for land next to Greatham Works site off Tees Road, which would involve enbankments being constructed or realigned with nearby water bodies.

A report presented to councillors said the plans, which form part of a wider strategy aiming to "deliver essential flood risk infrastructure throughout the Tees Estuary", would "reduce the risk of tidal flooding".

A statement with the application noted the current flood alleviation scheme embankments were in a "poor condition" and the scheme would protect chemical plants at the site.

The plants were described in planning documents as "important economically on a national scale", and it was hoped to "provide confidence" in the site, which could promote investment.

The planning statement also said the scheme would "increase adaptability and resilience to climate change, including measures to tackle flooding, drought, sea level rise, and coastal erosion".

A representative for applicant the Environment Agency, speaking at the meeting, noted the scheme had support from local industry and various nature conservation bodies, including Natural England and the RSPB.

Labour councillor Karen Oliver welcomed the project for its ecological benefits and "practical measures" in terms of flood defences.

Upgrades to existing drainage outlets have also been approved, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

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