Human remains found at recycling plant in Hartlepool
Written by Meena Green on 3rd April 2025
Human remains have been found at a recycling centre in Hartlepool.
Cleveland Police were called to the Biffa waste processing facility at Tofts Farm Industrial Estate after employees found a number of bones and officers are blocking off the area.
A Biffa spokesperson said: “Police were called after remains were found at the plant on Sunday, March 30. We are unable to comment on the investigation and the site remains closed until further notice.”
The police were called to the recycling plant at 11:40am on Sunday and an investigation was launched after a specialist examined the bones, confirming they were human remains.
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Chris Pringle, from Cleveland Police’s Homicide and Major Enquiry Team, said: “The investigation is in the very early stages and is extremely complex and sensitive due to the circumstances in which the remains have been found.
“We have a dedicated team of detectives and officers from departments across the force working at pace and conducting the investigation expeditiously to identify the remains, however this will take a considerable amount of time.”
Since the discovery of the remains, the recycling plant has been closed. It will stay that way as long as investigations continue.
Biffa waste processing facility is located at Tofts Farm Industrial Estate, on Brenda Road, and deals with Hartlepool’s waste collection, commercial recycling, and responsible general waste disposal. Energy Capital Partners recently took over ownership of Biffa in January 2023.
Detective Inspector Pringle said: “I understand how concerning this will be for those living within our community and the wider public. I know there will be families who have missing loved ones and worried about the remains, and I want to reassure you that if any relevant information comes to light, we will be in touch.
“I would encourage anyone who has concerns to please speak to an officer or to call Cleveland Police on 101 quoting reference number 055293.”
