Cuadrilla proposes two new fracking sites in Lancashire
Cuadrilla Resources has unveiled the proposed locations for two new exploration sites in the Fylde as part of its work to understand the full potential of Lancashire’s shale gas resources. The company intends to apply for planning permission to drill, hydraulically fracture (‘frack’) and test the flow of gas from up to four exploration wells on each of the sites, one at Roseacre Wood and the other at Preston New Road. Separate applications will also be made to install two seismic arrays that would be used to monitor the fracking process. The independent planning and environmental consultancy Arup will prepare an environmental impact assessment (EIA) for each of the new exploration sites.
The company has started to speak to residents and community representatives living near to the two new sites, which are located close to Roseacre and Little Plumpton, and has committed to an extensive programme of public consultation to support the development of its proposals.
As part of Cuadrilla’s review of sites, the company has decided not to apply for permission to carry out fracking at its Grange Hill site at this time. The existing well will now be used as the base for a seismic monitor to complement the seismic arrays that would be installed around the proposed new sites. This complies with the recommendations made by the Royal Society and The Royal Academy of Engineering for the monitoring of background seismicity.
- Cuadrilla’s announcement came shortly after a group of Sussex residents joined what is claimed to be the UK’s first ‘legal blockade’ to stop a potential fracking site in the heart of the South Downs National Park. The move came just days after media reports indicated the government was considering possible changes to trespass law in order to make it easier for companies to drill under people’s homes. In a legal move that could be replicated by communities across the UK, solicitors acting on behalf of residents near the village of Fernhurst wrote to Celtique Energie and the UK Energy Secretary Ed Davey, stating that they explicitly deny permission for horizontal drilling under their land and properties. Under the current legislation, shale gas prospectors need permission from landowners before drilling under their properties or must obtain special permission from a court.
News Item details
Journal title: Petroleum Review
Countries: UK -
Subjects: Shale gas, Exploration and production, Environmental impact, Environmental Impact Assessment, Land use
