Environment JSNA

Data and Intelligence

The Geographic Data Service produces a multi-dimensional index for Great Britain measuring how ‘healthy’ neighbourhoods are based on various indicators. The following have been analysed for this JSNA:

The following information is a summary of key findings from this information when viewed in 2026, alongside additional references.

Air quality

  • Hartlepool generally meets statutory air quality objectives, but WHO PM2.5 limits are exceeded in all neighbourhoods.
  • Mortality attributable to PM2.5: 4.5%, lower than England average (5.5%) but still significant.
  • Transport contributes 25% of climate emissions and is a major source of NO₂ and particulates.
  • Industrial legacy: 44 active environmental permits (2023) for regulated sites; historic heavy industry has declined but residual risks remain 1, 2

Domestic energy and fuel poverty

  • 53% of homes EPC D or below; poor insulation drives high energy bills and emissions.
  • Fuel poverty: ~11.2% of households (≈4,700 homes), slightly below North East average (14.4%) but still a concern.
  • ECO4 and local schemes provide grants for insulation, boilers, and renewables; average funding per property £6,000–£10,000 3, 4, 5.

Waste and circular economy

  • Recycling rate: 30.1% (below England average of ~44%).
  • Household waste: 394 kg per person/year; 41,991 tonnes collected in 2022–23, with 11,406 tonnes recycled.
  • Majority of residual waste goes to energy-from-waste incineration, not landfill (landfill rate ~5%)6.

Natural environment and biodiversity

  • Tree canopy cover: 5.7%, among the lowest in England (national target: 16.5% by 2050).
  • Tree Equity for Hartlepool project aims to plant 10 hectares of trees, engage 1,500 residents, and improve biodiversity.
  • Partnership with Environment Bank for Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG): creation of a 35-acre Habitat Bank to offset development impacts 7, 8, 9.

Climate resilience and flood risk

  • Hartlepool is a coastal town with long-term flood and erosion risks.
  • Shoreline Management Plan: “Hold the Line” strategy for next 100 years, but adaptation may be needed.
  • Short-term flood risk currently very low, but sea-level rise and storm surges pose future threats 10, 11.

Renewable energy and green infrastructure

  • High Barns Solar Farm approved (49.9 MW + battery storage), enough to power ~26,000 homes, offsetting 14,500 tCO₂ annually.
  • Hartlepool is part of Tees Valley Combined Authority’s hydrogen and carbon capture initiatives, including National Hydrogen Transport Hub and CCS projects (Liverpool Bay) 12, 13, 14.

Water quality and pollution

  • 30 water pollution incidents recorded (2018–2023); most were minor, but response times have declined nationally.
  • Local monitoring shows 693 sewage spills in 2024, Hartlepool shows high spill density relative to its coastline length: need for stronger regulatory capacity and potential investment in wastewater infrastructure15.
  • Drinking water testing shows full compliance or exceeding regulatory standards, as required by the Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations16.