Hartlepool has carried more than its fair share of the region’s waste burden for decades. Now a new proposal, the Tofts Road Energy Recovery Facility (TRERF), would bring even more hazardous waste into our town, processed right on the edge of Seaton Carew.

We, the undersigned, believe this is unacceptable.

Our concerns:

• More waste imported into Hartlepool from outside the area, adding to an already disproportionate concentration of waste‑handling sites.

• Potential odour and air‑quality impacts affecting Seaton Carew, the Headland, and wider coastal communities.

• Increased HGV traffic on already pressured routes including Brenda Road, Tofts Road and the surrounding industrial estate.

• Visual and environmental impact from a new large‑scale industrial facility and stack.

• Cumulative impact when combined with existing waste‑related operations in the town.

What we are asking

We call on Hartlepool Borough Council and all councillors to:

• Reject this proposal at the earliest possible stage,

• Refuse any planning application that seeks to bring additional hazardous or non‑hazardous waste into Hartlepool,

• Protect Seaton Carew and the wider town from becoming a regional dumping ground,

• Prioritise clean industry, tourism, and coastal wellbeing over further waste‑importation schemes.

Our message

Hartlepool deserves better than becoming the North East’s waste destination.

Seaton Carew deserves clean air, a healthy coastline, and a future built on opportunity, not more waste trucks and incineration.

We urge decision‑makers to listen to residents and say no to this project.