Ghost ships to be dismantled at last

May 9 2008 by Andrew Mernin, The Journal

THE dismantling of former US naval vessels in the region could begin in a matter of weeks as a five-year row over the controversial plans draws to a close.

Over the past five years Teesside-based Able UK has been embroiled in a battle with local authorities over its plans to dismantle ‘ghost ships’ in Hartlepool.

Last night, as the Government put its weight behind the plans, the company said it was hopeful of starting the process this summer.

Last October the firm was given the go-ahead for the plans by Hartlepool Borough Council, which had previously blocked Able’s application.

Communities and Local Government Secretary Hazel Blears has upheld the decision in a move described by the company as a vindication of its stance.

Now all that stands in Able’s way is the Environment Agency, which will make a decision in four to six weeks on whether to award the company a waste management licence. Able UK chairman Peter Stephenson said: “Obviously I am pleased that our actions and the validity of our plans have been so clearly supported by the planning inspector and accepted by the minister.

“We already have six vessels berthed, including four ships from the American Defence Reserve Fleet, and currently we are in negotiations with a number of parties for additional work, including wind turbine construction and further ship recycling.”

An Able spokesman added that, once the go-ahead for the plans was given, ship dismantling could continue on Teesside for years to come.

Meanwhile, Able UK is seeking to recoup legal costs, which could be as high as £1m, from Hartlepool Council.

Four US ships have been rusting in the company’s dock on the Tees since late 2003 as the company sought permission to begin work and fought off challenges from protesters.

Objectors claim harmful toxins would be released during recycling and the work would have a massive environmental impact on the town and its coastal wildlife.