Scotland Introduces New Safeguards for Unconventionals Development

The Scottish Government has introduced measures to strengthen planning policy in relation to unconventional oil and gas development, including specific safeguards for local communities and the environment.

Planning Minister Derek Mackay announced the new controls on shale gas exploration as part of the new National Planning Framework 3 (NPF3) and Scottish Planning Policy (SPP).

"This new policy also gives serious consideration to concerns over unconventional oil and gas with five main changes to strengthen planning policy, stated the Minister.

Buffer zones will be established to protect communities and the environment from hydraulic fracturing and these will be assessed by planning authorities and statutory consultees, prior to development proceeding.

Operators will also be required to undertake consultations with local communities on their proposals.

Mackay added: "Any application for coalbed methane or shale gas projects must comply with the appropriate regulatory regimes, including SEPA's guidance on the regulation of shale gas and coalbed methane."