Anti-fracking group's appeal for help funding Harthill appeal

HARTHILL Against Fracking has appealed for help from the public to cover potential £16,000 costs of an appeal over drilling in the village.

Chemical company Ineos won a planning inquiry to drill a 2,800-metre exploratory well on land at Common Road to test the shale gas.

A spokeswoman for the protest group, which has taken legal advice, said: “The barrister feels there is a case for an appeal on procedural grounds and has explained how we could progress this.

“Unfortunately, time is against us. A decision whether to pursue this course of action must be made by tomorrow (Friday).

“As we don’t have enough time to do any serious fundraising activities, we are appealing for people to contribute towards covering these costs, if it becomes necessary.

“Any amount would be greatly appreciated.”

The target is the potential costs if the appeal is lost. All donations would be returned in full if sufficient funds cannot be raised to proceed, the spokeswoman said.

To help, visit gofundme.com/harthill-against-fracking-legal.