Greater Manchester faces new fracking threat

New licencing areas - Dec 2013

Communities across Greater Manchester could face the threat of fracking following the Government’s announcement last week (Tuesday 17 December 2013) on a new licencing round for onshore oil and gas. The map showing possible areas of the country where fossil fuel companies can purchase drilling rights includes the whole of Greater Manchester (1) (see image left).

Ministers have also published draft legislation for tax breaks for fracking companies – while confirming the industry will offer financial incentives of £100,000 per well to persuade people to accept fracking in their local area.

Helen Chuntso from Frack Free Greater Manchester said:

“If the Government has its way, much of Greater Manchester will be carved up and sold to the highest bidder for fracking. But the outrageous tax breaks for drilling companies, and bribes for communities to accept it, will backfire.

“Already we have seen strong local opposition to the drilling site at Barton Moss in Salford, and as new communities wake up to the threat of fracking more people will join them.”

Pete Abel from Manchester Friends of the Earth said:

“The Government admits shale gas and coal bed methane could have significant impacts on local people and the environment, while experts say they won’t bring down energy bills.

“Instead of pursuing a dirty dash for gas, the Government should invest in renewables and energy efficiency which could create thousands of jobs in Greater Manchester.”

Notes for editors

Contact for comments: Helen Rimmer: 07940 006783

1. A map showing licences covering the whole of Greater Manchester is on page vi.

2. The Government report says there could be significant local impacts for air pollution, health, water treatment and landscape.

3. Shale gas: not all it’s fracked up to be: Friends of the Earth briefing.

– See more at: http://www.manchesterfoe.org.uk/greater-manchester-faces-new-fracking-threat/#sthash.D8tbld75.dpuf

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