Drilling diary April 2015
Updated list of key events on fracking and onshore oil and gas in April 2015 National day of action Rallies Meetings Industry conference Planning appeal Hustings
Health charity calls for immediate ban on fracking over “serious health risks”
A new report by the health professionals’ charity, Medact, has concluded that fracking for shale gas poses significant risks to public health. The report, published today, calls for an immediate five-year moratorium to allow for an assessment of the effects on health and the environment.
300+ MPs did not vote on underground waste disposal
A measure to take the siting of underground radioactive waste dumps out of local control came into force today after approval by only 277 of parliament’s 650 MPs. More than 300 MPs did not vote.
Single regulator would command public confidence, says fracking task force, but residents want a ban
The industry-funded shale gas task force has called for a single regulator for the onshore oil and gas industry to win over public confidence. But residents consulted by the task force said they just want a ban.
Public consultation begins on Cuadrilla’s revised Lancashire fracking plans
Lancashire County Council announced this afternoon it has launched the public consultation on the extra information submitted by Cuadrilla for its two planning applications for shale gas development in the Fylde.
Third Energy’s Ebberston Moor decision deferred
Members of the campaign group, Frack Free Ryedale, welcomed the deferral of a decision on plans by Third Energy for a re-injection well at Ebberston Moor South.
Drilling company tries to block public inquiry into Dudleston plans
Dart Energy is seeking to avoid the public defence of its proposals for coal bed methane drilling in Shropshire. The company is challenging a decision to hold a public inquiry into its planning application for an exploratory borehole at Dudleston Heath, near Ellesmere.
First Welsh shale planning application approved in forest beauty spot
Neath Port Talbot council has approved Wales’s first application to explore for shale gas. The council’s planning committee, meeting this afternoon, granted permission to UK Methane for an exploratory borehole for shale gas and coal bed methane in the Foel Fynyddau Forest, near Pontrhydyfen.
Decision delayed on Rathlin’s West Newton-B drilling application
East Riding of Yorkshire Council has postponed its decision on Rathlin Energy’s planning application for a new drilling site at West Newton until after the May elections.
Guest post: What Europa’s Kiln Lane drilling site means for fracking
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
DRILL OR DROP? 