Planning for shale gas explored

The government has announced a new package of planning measures to support the development of shale gas. Part of the government’s Industrial Strategy, the package, includes:

·      Streamlining and improving the regulation process for shale applications to ensure decisions are made in a timely way and developers and local authorities are supported through the process.

·     Launching a new £1.6mn shale support fund over the next two years to build capacity and capability in local authorities dealing with shale applications.

·     Holding a consultation on whether the early stages of shale exploration should be treated as permitted development.

Energy and Clean Growth Minister Claire Perry said: ‘This package of measures delivers on our manifesto promise to support shale gas and it will ensure exploration happens in the most environmentally responsible way while making it easier for companies and local communities to work together.’

Trade Association UK Onshore Oil and Gas (UKOOG) welcomed the package, suggesting that gas supply disruptions experienced this winter highlight the need to increase ‘home-grown’ sources of energy. Ken Cronin, Chief Executive of UKOOG, said: ‘To achieve greater home-grown energy production, Britain needs a policy framework and a planning and permitting system that allows industries like ours to be able to get decisions within timescales that work for all concerned, including the local communities we work in.’