Resident fears over hydrogen plant next to homes
GoogleFears over flooding and a surge in traffic have been expressed by people living just 75m (246ft) from a proposed hydrogen production facility.
The consultation period on the plans, submitted by Protium Green Hydrogen Supply, for a site on the River Tees at Haverton Hill Road, Stockton, has been extended to 26 February to allow further publicity.
Janine Forth, who lives opposite the site, said she objected to the plans due to the proximity to her home but also because the area has flooded several times.
Councillor Richard Eglington, cabinet member for housing at Stockton Council, said it was still a live planning application "which residents are welcome to give their views on".
Forth said: "This facility will be 75 metres from my house and I haven't seen a traffic management plan.
"Traffic around this area for residents at certain times is already ridiculous."
She said her road flooded in 1996, 1998, 2000 and, most recently, three years ago and worries about the risk that might pose to the plant.
Councillor Paul Weston also expressed concern at the "close proximity" to nearby residential homes.
He said: "Both residents and I need to be convinced what they say is accurate regarding noise levels and won't have a detrimental effect on the quality of life.
"Furthermore, due to the bridge at the Portract roundabout remaining in a state of disrepair with no access for heavy vehicles, this means more HGVs travelling through Billingham which is also giving residents a cause for concern."
'Strong safeguards'
Labour MP Chris McDonald said he would work with concerned residents to make sure there were "no negative impacts" on the Port Clarence community.
He said: "I'll take their views directly to the council and to the company and I will be pressing for clear answers, strong safeguards and firm assurances.
"Industry is good for jobs and our future but it must be done with local people, not to local people.
"If we're going to build the industries of tomorrow here on Teesside, it has to be done safely, transparently, and with the backing of the community."
Northumbrian Water said it has worked with the Environment Agency to manage the flood risk in the Port Clarence area.
A spokesperson said: "Following the flooding in 2023, we have continued to carry out improvement works and upgraded our infrastructure to increase protection to homes in that area.
"Any new development must meet strict planning rules around flood safety and we work with developers to assess and manage flood risk."
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen supported the project and said it was "exactly the kind of investment Teesside needs".
