Investigative journalist and environmental writer. Specialising in UK onshore oil and gas, fracking and the reaction to it.
As campaigners against drilling establish a camp outside Europa’s Kiln Lane site near Immingham, Biff Vernon outlines the local geology and explains what the well could mean for oil and gas development in the region
A council fact-finding inquiry on fracking has become mired in recriminations. Local community groups have accused Cheshire West and Chester Council of a “flawed and biased process” in the way it ran the inquiry. They walked out of the most recent meeting, accusing the council of being heavily […]
Opponents of exploratory oil drilling near three Sussex villagers are celebrating after Celtique Energie announced it would not fight refusals of planning permission.
The out-going chair of the Commons Energy and Climate Change Committee urged the next government to challenge opposition to fracking.
Celtique Energie announced this afternoon it would not be appealing against a refusal of planning permission to drill an exploratory well at Fernhurst in the South Downs National Park. And in a surprise announcement, the company also revealed it was pulling out of its appeal against the refusal […]
Rathlin Energy’s drilling operations in East Yorkshire have been heavily criticised by local people contributing to an official consultation. They accused the company of causing noise, damaging vibrations, light pollution, smells and extra traffic.
The Energy Minister, Matthew Hancock, has insisted UK shale gas is already strongly regulated, in response to a call for independent scrutiny of the industry.
Anti-fracking campaigners say the Ryedale area of North Yorkshire could see up to 950 fracking wells.
Updated list of key events on fracking and onshore oil and gas in March Deadline for comments on drilling plans Decision on drilling applications Consultation deadlines Ineos news conference Energy conferences and shale forum Training and talks Film screening Frack Free Festival
Local people have persuaded the Planning Inspectorate to hold a bespoke inquiry into whether Dart Energy should be allowed to drill an exploratory coal bed methane well near the Shropshire village of Dudleston.
DRILL OR DROP? 