EEF says the Government’s decision, which has caused outrage among protestors and environmentalists, could be a ‘significant step forward for the UK’s future in shale’. Tony McDonough reports.

Britain’s leading body representing manufacturers has welcomed the Government’s go-ahead for fracking in Lancashire describing the decision as a “significant step forward”.

Early on Thursday the Communities Secretary Sajid Javid overturned Lancashire Council’s rejection of a shale gas site in the county.

It paves the way for shale company Cuadrilla to start drilling next year. The decision sparked outrage from local protest groups, environmentalists and politicians.

Mr Javid is awaiting more evidence before making a decision on a second site in Lancashire but said he was “minded” to approve that, too.

Commercial viability

Opponents of fracking at sites in Cheshire and Wirral will now fear that decision makes it more likely drilling will be given the go-ahead close to their homes.

However, Claire Jakobsson, head of energy and climate policy at EEF, the manufacturers’ organisation, said: “Until the UK actually has some production sites in operation we will know very little about the commercial viability of this energy source, so today’s approval could be a significant step forward for the UK’s future in shale.   

“Following today’s decision, we could see production start within the next 18 months.

“It’s hoped that this development will provide vital information on the longer-term prospects for a UK shale industry.

“Approval of the second application, currently under consideration, would help to build this picture further and we hope the green light will be given for this too in due course.

Gas extraction

Fracking is a method of extracting natural gas from shale rock formations deep underground.

The process involves pumping water, chemicals and usually sand underground at high pressure to fracture the shale and release the gas.

Supporters of fracking say it could lead to the creation of more than 60,000 jobs across the UK and help the country cut its dependence on the importation of energy from abroad.

However, opponents says fracking carries huge environmental risks and would lead to a rise in emissions and accelerate climate change.

Economic benefits

Ms Jakobsson added: “Shale gas has the potential to deliver significant economic benefits to the UK, from more affordable energy to security of supply, through to jobs in the energy and manufacturing sectors.

“It is right that we explore this opportunity and understand the potential for shale gas as part of the UK’s energy mix.”

Today’s decision also prompted a strong response from both Labour and Liberal Democrats who are opposed to fracking.