Proposals tabled by the Department of Energy and Climate could see gas and oil extraction companies no longer required to acquire the agreeance of landowners in order to start drilling under their sites.
If enacted, the legislative changes would imbue operators with a statutory right of access for shale gas, oil explorations and deep geothermal drilling at depths of below 300m.
Business and energy minister, Michael Fallon, said the proposals would enable Britain to produce more “homegrown” energy.
“Shale development will bring jobs and business opportunities,” explained Mr Fallon. “ We are keen for shale and geothermal exploration to go ahead while protecting residents through the robust regulation that is in place.”
“These proposals allow shale and geothermal development while offering a fair deal for communities in return for underground access at depths so deep they will have no negative impact on landowners.”
Proposals greeted with mixed views
The proposals, which were announced in the Queen’s Speech in Parliament, have been greeted with mixed views.
Whilst full details are to be released, the proposals could trigger a change in the trespass laws, allowing fracking companies to drill under people’s homes without their permission.
Greenpeace UK executive director, John Sauven, blasted the timing of the trespass measure, saying its inclusion in the Queen’s speech just days after the launch of the consultation made “a mockery of public participation”.
“Ministers are losing the argument on fracking and are now steamrolling over people’s rights in order to sacrifice our countryside and climate,” he said.
Ken Cronin, chief executive of the UK Onshore Operators Group, which represents the onshore oil and gas industry, downplayed such concerns.
The measures, he assured, would bring the onshore oil and gas and geothermal industries into line with other activities such as mining and utilities.
In doing so, Mr Cronin insisted it would have “no noticeable effect on the lives of home and property owners”.
“It serves no one if an anomaly in the legal system allows the few to block access to much needed natural resources,” he added.
Ministers are now waiting for the results of the 12-week consultation before deciding whether to add the measures to legislation.
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