Utility Week: Water companies warn shale gas extractors over water quality

Water companies have issued a stark warning to the shale gas industry that the quality of drinking water "must be protected at all costs" and fracking must not harm public health. 

The call came from Jim Marshall, policy and business adviser at industry body Water UK.

He said fracking could contaminate the water supply with methane gas and harmful chemicals if not carefully planned and carried out.

Fracking also requires large amounts of water, which would strain supplies around drilling sites. The power of the drilling and fracturing process also risked damaging water mains, which could lead to leaks and shortages.

Speaking at the UK Shale - Making It Happen conference in London, Marshall said: "If [fracking] goes ahead, we want to ensure corners are not cut and standards compromised, leaving us all counting the cost for years to come."  MORE