Decision delayed on fracking firm's Woodsetts drilling appeal

The final call had already been moved to the Government rather than planning inspector Katie Peerless, who chaired last summer’s inquiry.

It was decided that the decision would be informed by her report but the final say would be from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

But a letter from the department, which emerged today, said the decision deadline of April 8 would not be met.

It added: “Regrettably, the secretary of state will not be in a position to publish a decision by this date. 

“I realise this will be disappointing news, and apologise for the delay in issuing a final decision on this case.

“I can assure you that we will endeavour to minimise the delay as much as possible.”

Ineos’ proposals for a 2,800-metre exploratory well at Dinnington Road have been rejected twice by Rotherham Council’s planning board.

Road and environment dangers were cited at the second rejection in September 2018.