Cuadrilla Commences Shale Gas Search at Banks Site

UK shale gas specialist Cuadrilla Resources has commenced drilling at a location six miles from Southport town centre.

In a letter to families around Banks sent earlier, the firm’s Chief Executive, Mark Miller, said: “As you are already aware, Cuadrilla holds several temporary planning permits to explore for shale gas in Lancashire and has been preparing its site near Banks over the past few months in order to begin drilling operations.”

Drilling will target shale gas 8,000 feet below the Banks site.

Cuadrilla said it is confident that its operations were completely safe for people, property and the environment.

The company's activities have drawn criticism with groups warning that the method use to extract the gas, known as hydraulic fracturing or fracking, is harmful to the environment.

Cuadrilla voluntarily decided to postpone its fracking operations at its Preese Hall 1 well, following small earthquakes located close to the site on 1 April and 27 May 2011.

Opponents to the drilling plan to hold a meeting this Thursday to discuss concerns. Chair of the Blackpool Greens, Phil Mitchell, will speak about Cuadrilla's shale gas drilling near Blackpool.

Source: Formby Times