Fracking latest: Decision delayed until April 30

Cuadrilla has been exploring shale gas options in Lancashire

Cuadrilla and Lancashire County Council will take until April 30 to discuss the latest planning applications for fracking in the area.

The new time allotted is to consult on further information relating to noise and traffic concerns.

A statement read: “The county council’s Development Control Committee decided last week to defer decisions on applications by Cuadrilla to develop two sites in Lancashire after the company asked them to consider new proposals to reduce the impact of noise and traffic.

“The applications are to drill, frack, and test gas flows, with associated separate applications for environmental monitoring, at two sites in Lancashire – Preston New Road at Little Plumpton, and Roseacre Wood at Roseacre.

“The council’s planners are currently considering the new information on noise and traffic and will hold a further consultation with regulators and the public before putting their recommendations to the committee.

“Dates for the consultation and the meetings at which the Development Control Committee will decide the application will be announced in due course.”

The decision on fracking was recently delayed amidst huge protests outside the County Council.