Two have already docked in Hartlepool while a further two, currently being towed across the Atlantic, were yesterday given Government permission to continue their journey, arriving later next week.

Campaigners say toxic chemicals and asbestos make the ships a health and environment threat.

But Hartlepool MP Peter Mandelson said that the fears were based on "misinformation" and the vessels should be dismantled as planned by Able UK. Despite the town MP's assurances that the vessels are safe, Friends of the Earth are adamant they contain dangerous chemicals and PCBs.

The Caloosahatchee and Canisteo have already arrived in the north east port despite fierce protests from green groups.

The Department for Environment announced the Canopus and Compass Island, currently on their way across the Atlantic could also spend the winter there.

Mr Mandelson said he had inspected the ships that have already docked along with Environment Agency experts and they posed no threat.

He said: "The facts are very different from what is commonly understood. There is no cargo of oil or chemicals, toxic or otherwise. There is no more than the usual amount of asbestos you get in all such old structures."

The Department for Environment said it would be too dangerous for the ships to attempt a return crossing of the Atlantic at this time of year.