Fracking in protected areas

Table of contents

• Original news
• What are the key points contained in the government’s announcements on onshore oil and gas?
• How will companies bid for a licence?
• What guidance was issued in this area? Are there any grey areas? Are there sufficient safeguards in place? In what circumstances will fracking be allowed on protected land?
• What difference will the intention of the Secretary of State to recover appeals for his own determination make?
• What reactions to the announcements have emerged?
• What else should lawyers practising in this area be aware of?

Article summary

Environment analysis: Ministers have given the go-ahead for a big expansion of fracking across Britain that will allow drilling in national parks and other protected areas under ‘exceptional circumstances.’ Tim Pugh, partner in the planning and environment team at Berwin Leighton Paisner, says that despite fierce opposition from environmental campaigners, there is nothing seismic in this development and business is carrying on very much as usual.