Somerset County Council consults on fracking
Somerset County Council is consulting on its new policy towards fracking in Somerset. The consultation runs until March 8th and we need as many people as possible to comment on their plans.
- To view and read the document click on http://www.somersetconsults.org.uk/gf2.ti/f/336162/8880805.1/PDF/-/Minerals_Plan_Jan_13.pdf
- The relevant chapter is chapter 10 page 56 Energy minerals.
- To comment on the policy click on http://www.somersetconsults.org.uk/consult.ti/Preferred_Options/answerQuestionnaire?qid=1855331
- The relevant questions are Q16, Q20, Q21, Q22, Q23, Q25, Q27
Below is a copy of the proposed policy.
Preferred policy SMP12. Proposals for the appraisal exploration and/or extraction of energy minerals
Planning permission for the appraisal exploration and/or extraction of energy minerals in Somerset will be granted provided that the applicant demonstrates that:
a) the impacts of the proposed development on the environment and local communities are acceptable, in particular with reference to Development Management policies 1-12
b) The proposal is located and designed to mitigate adverse impacts on the environment and local communities or, as a last resort, proportionately compensate for or offset such impacts; and
c) the proposal is supported by comprehensive economic and environmental assessments
d) Somerset County Council, as minerals planning authority, will require the submission of a new planning application at each key stage in the extraction of energy minerals in Somerset
Or write to the Minerals and waste policy team
C Block (PPC 601C)
County Hall
Taunton
TA1 4DY
Posted on: February 1, 2013