Rotherham fracking bid moves to next stage

Ineos’ proposed well to explore land under Common Road in Harthill will move directly to the planning application stage, Rotherham Borough Council has ruled.

This vertical core well will evaluate the local geology to discover if fracking is worthwhile.

Ineos shale operations director Tom Pickering said: “We are very pleased that the latest step in the process has now been completed. 

Land at Common Lane, Harthill

“While we are not required to complete a formal EIA, all relative environmental concerns will be addressed as part of the application and we are looking forward to continuing to work with the council and community to discuss these as the project moves forward.”

Council planning director Chris Wilkins said: “The impacts from the proposed development are found not to be likely to be so significant, either individually or collectively, such as to require environmental impact assessment. 

“The conclusion which is therefore reached on behalf of the council is that the proposed development would not be likely to have significant effect on the environment, in terms of the EIA Regulations.

“This does not negate the requirement to submit supporting information with any subsequent application to allow the assessment of all material planning considerations.”

Ineos said its planning application would include an environmental report covering ecology, noise, landscape and visual effects.