North Yorkshire fracking plans given final green light

Plans to begin fracking for shale gas in Kirby Misperton have been given the final seal of approval by North Yorkshire County Council. Credit: ITV Yorkshire

Plans to begin fracking for shale gas in Kirby Misperton have been given the final seal of approval by North Yorkshire County Council.

Councillors agreed planning conditions with gas firm Third Energy so work can start at the proposed site.

The conditions relate to:

  • Traffic management

  • The prevention of mud on roads

  • The financial commitment required of Third Energy to deliver the restoration and aftercare of the development.

Despite a series of protests last year, initial permission was given for the scheme - which will involve drilling into the earth and injecting rock with fluid to release gas.

The Council have assured residents that the decision will not have a bearing on future applications.

The council say these conditions have now "been agreed and will be carefully monitored throughout the operation".

“The County Council is very aware” added Richard Flinton, North Yorkshire’s Chief Executive, “that this is a controversial project of major sensitivity and complexity. "

Third Energy is today delivering to the county council the formal seven day notification of commencement of development.