The Scottish Government is to have the final decision on two planning applications for the production of coal bed methane, it is understood.

The firm Dart Energy had applied to Falkirk Council and Stirling Council to seek permission to drill at 14 sites in respective areas. However, it is understood the company has now asked the Government to make the ruling, rather than the local councils.

The proposal would see 22 wells drilled, as well as a gas delivery and water treatment facility constructed, along with the associated infrastructure. The project would be located on land on the Falkirk and Stirling council boundary.

-- Advertisement --

It is understood no hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, would take place during the process, but environmental campaigners say the risks associated with coal bed methane gas extraction are similar.

Thousands of objections have already been submitted to the councils from local residents, and Planning Minister Derek Mackay has said the plans need further investigation.

He added: "Ministers have recalled Dart Energy's planning appeal for the proposed development of coal bed methane production at a number of sites in central Scotland.

"The decision has been taken in light of the considerable public interest in the proposals, as well as its relevance to the implementation of the new recently updated Scottish planning policy.

"Scottish Ministers therefore believe there is a national interest that would be best served by further scrutiny of these proposals."

(JP/MH)