Cuadrilla begins construction at Lancashire shale gas site

Cuadrilla has announced the start of initial surface construction works on its shale gas exploration site at Preston New Road, near Little Plumpton.

The surface site, which is roughly the size of a rugby pitch, will take approximately three months to build and prepare before drilling can commence. These early works will include a new site entrance, access road and well pad. The top soil on the well pad will be cleared so a protective membrane can be installed to create an impermeable barrier underneath the site.

"The operations are also underpinned by comprehensive site monitoring programmes undertaken separately by ourselves, regulators and independent academics. Twelve months from now we hope this work will prove the economic viability of this indigenous shale gas resource in Lancashire which will help improve energy security for the nation.”

"It's important for people to note that it's been fully three months since planning consent was granted, during which time Lancashire County Council has been busy satisfying itself that Cuadrilla has discharged all of the planning conditions attached to its consent, demonstrating that despite the approval being granted from Westminster, our local council still maintains a strong, working oversight role. "The preparatory construction works that will now be undertaken are going to be similar to those seen close by at the Barrett and Story Homes developments."