7th May 2014

Celtique Energie has told residents near its proposed exploratory oil well at Kirdford and Wisborough Green that it has revised its plans to reduce lorry traffic and the impact on the environment.

In a letter dated 1^st May, the company said it would now drill the optional horizontal well immediately after the vertical one. The original plan was to wait until data from the vertical well had been analysed.

The revised plan would, the company said, eliminate the need for another drilling rig to come on site, substantially reduce traffic movements to and from the site and shorten the operation.

The letter also promises other measures to reduce traffic, including:

• Using a smaller rig for well testing
• Car share scheme for staff

Celtique Energie submitted the application in September 2013. After a public consultation, West Sussex County Council demanded extra information and clarification.

The company says it has now submitted an addendum to the Environmental Statement and a new traffic section.

The letter promises additional measures to reduce the impact of the operation on Barbastelle Bats in Northup Copse. This includes hooded lighting and baffles on the perimeter fencing. The access route will also be moved, the letter says, to reduce the impact on a badger sett.

Mr Davies said: “We are firmly committed to the protection of the local environment and wildlife as a responsible operator and we believe that these positive steps demonstrate this.

The company now hopes its application will be considered before September.

Frack Free Sussex said: “If this planning application is approved by West Sussex County Council, it will be an endorsement of ecocide by representatives who are meant to protect us and our environment.”

Click here for the link to the application on West Sussex County Council’s website