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Trafford council delays gas decision after Friends of the Earth highlights inadequate EIA

news release

Trafford Council was forced to delay its decision over a planning application for coal-bed methane gas exploration and extraction by energy firm Igas today (Thursday 9 October 2014) after Friends of the Earth raised concerns about the planning process and an inadequate Environmental Impact Assessment.

Friends of the Earth wrote to the council three times over the past week warning the council that its EIA was flawed. Among the concerns raised were failures to properly take into account the impact that the proposed activities might have on climate change, air quality and ground water. Manchester Friends of the Earth also handed in a 1300-strong petition against the plans this week.

Friends of the Earth North West Campaigner Helen Rimmer said:

“This raises serious concerns about the regulatory system – if Friends of the Earth hadn’t raised concerns, the flaws in this poorly assessed gas exploration and production scheme may well have been ignored.”

“Over 1300 people have already signed a petition against these unpopular plans which could lead to fracking and health risks for local people.”

“We believe the impacts of this proposal on air quality, climate change and the environment are far too high, and it should be rejected when it next comes before the Council.”

ENDS

For press information please contact the Friends of the Earth media team on 020 7566 1649.

Published by Friends of the Earth Trust

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