Second bid for 'ghost ships' firm

An inquiry into the original planning application is due to go ahead

Revised plans to scrap so-called US "ghost ships" on Teesside are being considered on Friday.

Hartlepool-based Able UK wants to dismantle the former naval vessels at a facility in nearby Graythorp.

Last year the town council rejected plans for recycling facilities at the dock, but the firm will appeal against that decision at a public inquiry.

The revised proposals include three planning applications and consent to work with hazardous substances.

In 2003, the firm won the contract with the US Government to dismantle up to 13 vessels.

Four ships arrived that year, but delays caused by environmental and planning concerns prevented the remaining nine leaving the James River in Virginia.

Wind turbines

In October 2006, councillors threw out Able UK's original plans - a decision which the company will appeal against at a public inquiry starting on Tuesday.

The council has since admitted that fresh government policy meant it could no longer block planning permission, but the decision came too late to save an order for the further nine vessels.

The Environment Agency has already withdrawn its objections to the plans.

The main application covers a range of proposals to develop the site, including construction, repair, refurbishment and decommissioning of all types of vessels, and the manufacture of wind turbines.