To whom it may concern,
I am writing in response to the draft Minerals Plan.
I am concerned about the lack of a separate policy on unconventional hydrocarbons, particularly as I believe there was a substantial demand for this in a previous consultation. As I understand it, extracting shale gas is very different to more 'conventional' hydrocarbons, and the technique is incredibly underdeveloped in the UK. Particular care would need to be taken to protect the landscape in 3D, including mapping of fault lines and coalfields, protection of groundwater and prevention of methane leaks which would contribute to further greenhouse gas emissions. There is a requirement for huge amounts of water, and the subsequent disposal of toxic flowback. I also feel that any speculative drilling will open the flood gates to a widespread industrialisation of the county that will be impossible to regulate. I am worried about the damage to farming, tourism and living conditions that will arise from increased lorry movements and toxic air quality.
Primarily, I am deeply concerned about the contribution of a new fossil fuel to climate change. Is it not a legal requirement for Plan policies to reduce climate emissions (Planning & Compulsory Purchase Act 2004, s19(1A))? I feel that 'fracking' at the expense of sustainable alternatives is both illogical and immoral. Furthermore, I am astounded and saddened that the local council and the national government consistently seem to ignore people's concerns and evidence of the profoundly destructive impacts to health of local people, livestock, wildlife, local economy, local environment and global climate.
I urge Nottinghamshire County Council to address unconventional hydrocarbons in the detail required.