Cuadrilla appeals against fracking refusals on Lancashire sites

Shale gas developer Cuadrilla will appeal against Lancashire Council’s decision to refuse planning permission to explore for shale gas at both of its Lancashire sites.

The firm’s applications sought planning permission to drill, hydraulically fracture (frack) and test the flow of gas from up to four exploration wells on each of two sites in Lancashire, one at Preston New Road and the other at Roseacre Wood.

However, last month after a great deal of deliberation, Lancashire Council refused to grant planning consent to either site.

Cuadrilla will also appeal the refusal of a separate planning application to install seismic and groundwater monitoring stations around the proposed Preston New Road exploration site.

A similar planning application was granted for monitoring works around the proposed Roseacre Wood site, but Cuadrilla will also appeal against certain conditions imposed on this planning consent.

Chief executive Francis Egan said the company “recognised that onshore shale gas exploration still feels relatively new” in the UK.

“We remain committed to engaging with local communities to reassure them that exploratory operations can and will be carried out safely and in an environmentally responsible way,” he said.

“I understand that some people would prefer that we did not appeal but I am confident that we will demonstrate to Lancashire and the UK that shale gas exploration and fracking is not only safe but represents a very real opportunity to create jobs, fuel businesses, heat UK homes and stimulate significant local economic growth.”

UK Onshore Oil and Gas (UKOOG) chief executive Ken Cronin said: “We welcome Cuadrilla’s decision to appeal against the planning decisions at both of its sites in Fylde. These appeals are a normal part of the planning process in the UK.”