Darlington Council Approves Teesside Airport Hydrogen Station Plan

Darlington Council approved a hydrogen station, set to be built by Element 2 for large trucks. It will be located near the St George Airport Hotel. The station will fill up heavy goods vehicles.

Bowman Riley represented Element 2, proposing a 7,825 square meter area. Currently, the area lacks a road for vehicles. A new road will connect the station to Teesside Airport Road.

The station will feature a canopy with two refuelling spots underneath, along with a hydrogen dispenser. Three hydrogen tanks, protected by walls, will be stored on-site. The site will operate as self-service, 24/7.

This project supports the decarbonization of heavy transport by providing a hydrogen refuelling location. The site is well-suited, near the A1(M) and A66, offering easy access for HGVs. It also utilizes existing airport land efficiently.

The plan includes sourcing green hydrogen and minimizing electrical infrastructure. Concrete walls will further protect the hydrogen storage. Pedestrians can access the site via an existing path. Safety and sustainability are key priorities.

The plan aligns with Darlington’s regulations, which support sustainability and growth. Highway authorities raised no objections, indicating no impact on road safety. Noise levels are also not a concern.

The location has a low flood risk, and the 2.5 tonnes of hydrogen stored is below the consent threshold. While one public comment raised historical concerns, the Parish Council approved the project.

The approval includes several conditions. Construction must commence within three years, and the project must adhere to the approved plans. A habitat plan must also be submitted and maintained for thirty years.

Additionally, Element 2 needs to share a tree protection plan. A land assessment will verify for pollution before construction, and they have to submit a landscaping plan and continuously maintain it for thirty years afterwards. The decision was finalized on February 4, 2025.