Home / Environment / North Yorkshire Gas Drill Plan Rejected by Council
North Yorkshire Gas Drill Plan Rejected by Council
25 Apr
Summary
- Councillors rejected gas drilling plans in Burniston village.
- Concerns cited include pollution, cliff stability, and noise.
- The company plans to appeal the preliminary refusal decision.
Plans for gas drilling in the North Yorkshire village of Burniston have been rejected by local councillors. Europa Oil & Gas had proposed installing a 125ft (38m) rig using a proppant squeeze method, which has drawn comparisons to small-scale fracking. The application, initially recommended for approval by planning officers, faced significant opposition.
More than 1,600 local residents submitted objections, raising fears about environmental pollution, cliff stability, noise, light pollution, and groundwater impacts. Concerns were also highlighted regarding the potential impact on the dark skies policy of the nearby North York Moors National Park. Following an extensive meeting, councillors voted overwhelmingly to refuse the scheme.
This preliminary refusal will undergo review by the secretary of state before a final decision is made. Europa Oil & Gas has stated its intention to appeal the decision, expressing confidence in a successful outcome. The company emphasized their commitment to responsible development and the importance of domestic gas production.
