Cuadrilla Updates on Bowland Exploration Programme

Cuadrilla Resources said it is continuing to consult with residents on proposals for two shale gas exploration sites in the Fylde.

The company has been carrying out an extensive programme of public consultation for the two sites at Roseacre Wood and Preston New Road, writing to over 9,000 households and holding a variety of events to give residents the opportunity to find out more about their plans.

As part of the consultation process, planning and environmental consultants at Arup have produced two new brochures detailing the emerging findings of the Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) that will accompany planning applications for the two sites.

Two dedicated Community Liaison Groups have also been established for Roseacre Wood and Preston New Road, providing community representatives with an additional forum to meet Cuadrilla’s project team, discuss the proposals and make recommendations.

Following the consultation, Cuadrilla intends to apply for planning permission to drill, hydraulically fracture and test the flow of gas from up to four exploration wells at each of the Roseacre Wood and Preston New Road sites.

A works programme is also underway to restore the exploration sites at Anna’s Road and Preese Hall. Site restoration plans for these two sites were approved by Lancashire County Council at a planning committee earlier this year.

As part of Cuadrilla’s review of sites, the company will also be applying for planning permission to carry out seismic and pressure monitoring at the Grange Hill site. The well will not be hydraulically fractured.