Energy Minister Fergus Ewing has confirmed a moratorium on fracking until additional research – as well as a public consultation – is undertaken.

The decision comes just days after the UK Government voted against a moratorium.

Full control over fracking is due to be devolved to Scotland after the general election in May, so for the timebeing, it is understood permission for unconventional oil and gas developments will be refused on planning grounds.

Minister Ewing added that the Scottish Government will now carry out further work before making a final decision on the issue of fracking. He revealed that the Government would undertake a full public consultation on unconventional oil and gas extraction, commission a full public health impact assessment, carry out further work into strengthen planning guidance and look at tightening environmental regulation.

-- Advertisement --

Minister Ewing commented: "I am announcing a moratorium on the granting of planning consents for all unconventional oil and gas developments, including fracking. This moratorium will continue until such time as the work I have set out to Parliament today, including a full public consultation, is completed.

"The Scottish Government has taken a cautious, considered and evidence-based approach to unconventional oil and gas and fracking.

"I have listened carefully to concerns raised by local communities and environmental campaigners. We have put in place robust environmental regulation, tougher planning rules and successfully opposed the UK Government's plans to end Scottish householders' rights to object to drilling under their homes.

"We recognise that local communities are likely to bear the brunt of any unconventional oil and gas developments, particularly in terms of increased traffic and related emissions and noise impacts. These are issues that must be researched further."

He added: "We have listened to legitimate concerns about potential negative impacts. However, we must also acknowledge that some take a different view and see opportunities in unconventional oil and gas extraction.

"We should never close our minds to the potential opportunities of new technologies – but we must also ensure that community, environmental and health concerns are never simply brushed aside."

(JP/CD)