Stoke-on-Trent is replacing its 30-year-old waste incinerator with a state-of-the-art Energy Recovery Facility. The council has launched a public consultation on the £millions project, which would demolish the current Hanford plant and build a cleaner, more efficient facility in its place. The new plant would generate power for local homes while cutting carbon emissions.
The existing facility, known locally as the Sideway Incinerator, has been burning Stoke's rubbish since it opened three decades ago. The new Energy Recovery Facility would handle between 230,000 and 290,000 tonnes of waste annually, future-proofing capacity as the city grows. The council explored other options including refurbishing the old plant, but financial modelling showed building new was the most practical solution.
One change residents need to know about: the Hanford Household Waste and Recycling Centre will need to relocate during construction. Residents will temporarily use the Burslem site on Federation Road while the new facility is being built. This temporary move will ensure the waste service continues without disruption.
Stoke residents have until 26 June to share their views on the proposals. The council is holding two drop-in events at Stoke Indoor Market on Friday 12 and Saturday 13 June, where officers will answer questions and gather feedback. This is your chance to have your say before the council makes its final decision on the project.