Partner Article

Fieldfisher comments on landmark fracking decision

THE Government’s decision today to allow shale gas exploration sends a clear message on the direction of the UK’s energy policy says one of Manchester’s leading energy teams.

Speaking as Communities Secretary Sajid Javid approved plans for shale gas exploration at Preston New Road in Lancashire, Joanne Holbrook, an energy and environmental lawyer-, who represents a number of energy clients at Fieldfisher Manchester, said: “Whilst un-welcome to many, today’s decision from Government is not a surprise. It was very much expected.

“The current Government is very pro-shale and the Prime Minister has been clear that shale gas will be a large part of the UK’s future energy supply.

Her colleague, planning lawyer Elaine Field added: “Today’s decision is a landmark ruling for the industry and we can expect to see more companies submit planning applications for shale gas exploration now Cuadrilla have finally been successful. It also sends a message to local authorities having to consider such applications

“For the environmentalists and local campaign groups who have already been through a judicial review of the application they could still challenge the Government’s decision - but would have to show that the Communities Secretary has erred on a point of law.”

Environmentalists and local campaign groups have reacted angrily to the decision, saying it was a denial of local democracy.

Joanne Holbrook added further “the legal framework, procedures and regulation in the UK differ substantially from the US and as the shale gas industry develops, that framework will become more visible and better understood which is good for both industry and campaign groups alike”.

A second site, Roseacre Wood, has not yet been given the green light amid concerns over the impact on the area.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Emily Hallinan .