Double U-turn on fracking in protected nature sites?

The UK Government has launched a consultation on whether it should ban fracking in protected nature sites. It follows draft regulations set out by DECC in July which said fracking can take […]

The UK Government has launched a consultation on whether it should ban fracking in protected nature sites.

It follows draft regulations set out by DECC in July which said fracking can take place below 1,200m in National Parks, Areas of Outstanding National Beauty and World Heritage Sites after it was banned in January.

The consultation document states the government is now seeking to “ensure that surface activities associated with hydraulic fracturing will not occur in specified protected areas”.

DECC is proposing the inclusion of a new licence condition in Petroleum Exploration and Development Licences (PEDLs).

It also proposes the development of a policy statement for the approval processes submitted under existing PEDLs.

The change would only be applied in England.

The consultation ends on 16th December.

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