William Eichler 20 July 2018

Whitehall to consult on allowing ‘fracking’ without planning permission

The Government yesterday launched a consultation on plans to allow drilling for shale gas to go ahead without planning permission.

The controversial plans, which were first proposed in May, would allow shale exploration — also known as ‘fracking’ — to go ahead without the permission of local authorities.

‘With the Government committed to ensuring that strong safeguards are in place, any new permitted development right would have to abide by both environmental and site protection laws and would not apply to exploratory drilling in sensitive areas (such as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty),’ the consultation states.

Responding to the plans when they were first announced, the Local Government Association (LGA) warned against bypassing the ‘locally democratic planning system’.

‘We oppose any proposal for shale exploration to be allowed to bypass the locally democratic planning system through permitted development or national planning inspectors,’ said Cllr Judith Blake, the LGA’s environment spokesperson.

‘We are clear that it should be up to local communities to decide whether or not to host fracking operations in their areas.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Biodiversity and Climate Resilience

Cherwell District Council
£68,930 - £73,320.50
This is a high-impact leadership role focused on delivering Cherwell's Climate Action Plan Oxfordshire
Recuriter: Cherwell District Council

Executive Director of Neighbourhood Services

Cherwell District Council
£113,435.50 - £125,379 / Grade
This is more than a leadership role - it's an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy Oxfordshire
Recuriter: Cherwell District Council

Head of Chief Executive's Office

Cherwell District Council
£68,930 - £73,320.50 / Grade M
This is a pivotal leadership position at the heart of the Council Oxfordshire
Recuriter: Cherwell District Council

Short Breaks Community Officer

North East Lincolnshire Council
£28,142 FTE
This is a varied role where no two days will be the same. North East Lincolnshire
Recuriter: North East Lincolnshire Council

Casual Cleaning Assistant

Durham County Council
Grade 1 £24,796 Pro rata to hours worked £12.85 per hour
Are you looking for work that fits around your schedule and lifestyle? Casual Cleaning Assistants required post based at the Empire Theatre, Consett. Consett
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner