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Govt to fast-track fracking through planning system

news release

Responding to news that the Government is attempting to fast-track fracking applications through the planning system, Friends of the Earth planning adviser Naomi Luhde-Thompson said: “Bulldozing fracking applications through the planning system, against the wishes of local people and councils, will simply fan the flames of mistrust and opposition.

“Local authorities have been following the rules. These changes are being made because the Government doesn’t agree with the democratic decisions councils have been making.

“It’s no wonder fracking’s unpopular when even the frackers admit that it is unlikely to cut energy prices. It also threatens house prices and the environment of local communities and will cause more climate change.

“Rather than riding roughshod over local democracy to suit the interests of a dirty industry, ministers should champion real solutions to the energy challenges we face, such as boosting the UK’s huge renewable power potential and cutting energy waste.”

ENDS

Notes to editors:

1. The delays with planning applications have frequently been caused by developers. For example, Cuadrilla asked for a deferment to submit more information on two planning applications in Lancashire. Third Energy failed to provide sufficient information to enable an application to be validated.

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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