INEOS eyes shale gas reserves in Nottinghamshire

A Swiss petrochemicals firm has confirmed it will look for shale gas reserves in the East Midlands. INEOS has formally notified Nottinghamshire County Council of its plans to undertake 3D seismic […]

A Swiss petrochemicals firm has confirmed it will look for shale gas reserves in the East Midlands.

INEOS has formally notified Nottinghamshire County Council of its plans to undertake 3D seismic surveys across the region over the next six months.

The scans will help INEOS gain a better understanding of the geology and rock formations below the ground to understand where shale gas might be located and fracking could potentially be conducted.

The survey area, which extends into Derbyshire and Rotherham, covers an area of approximately 250 square kilometres.

Sally Gill, Planning Manager for Nottinghamshire County Council said: “Subject to certain restrictions, INEOS is allowed to undertake the seismic survey without planning permission in line with national planning rules.

“However, any further development, including test drilling to explore for shale gas below ground, will require full planning permission.”

INEOS has confirmed to the County Council that no seismic surveying will be undertaken within the Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve and other areas of special environmental interest.

French energy company ENGIE recently sold its UK shale gas interests to INEOS for an undisclosed sum.

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