Ghost Ships
Objectors urge delay on ghost ships debate
OBJECTORS to plans to scrap so-called ghost ships in the region have called for an eleventh-hour deferral by councillors.
Able UK's three planning applications and a Hazardous Substances Consent request will be considered by Hartlepool Borough Council's planning committee today.
The main application covers a range of proposals to extend the use of Able's Graythorp site, on the outskirts of Hartlepool, to include the construction, repair, refurbishment and decommissioning of all types of ships, vessels and other craft, and for the manufacture of wind turbines.
In a letter addressed to the members of the committee yesterday, Tom Picken, a planning co-ordinator for Friends of the Earth, urged them to defer their decision.
He said: "These applications are identical to the previous set of applications by Able UK, which are due to be determined by a planning inquiry starting on Tuesday.
"A deferral of decision would allow detailed expert evidence to be presented and thoroughly tested by a planning inspector. This would allow for a meaningful opportunity for the people of Teesside to air their concerns and have these complex issues tested.
"Too often, people feel disempowered by big business and let down by the system. We hope you will allow your communities the dignity of a fair hearing."
A spokesman for Hartlepool council said last night: "Although the regulations provide for a deferral, they do not preclude the committee from determining the current applications.
"Given that the council decided not to present evidence at the public inquiry, it would be unreasonable not to determine the latest applications."
8:25am Friday 5th October 2007
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