fracking

Regular readers of Hinterland may recall how I reported earlier in the year concerns that the rather rude sounding process of “fracking” had caused an earthquake in Blackpool. This article outlines concerns that it may be about to threaten another iconic tourist location. It says:

“Concerns were raised on Wednesday that the controversial process of extracting gas from underground could pose a threat to Bath’s world famous hot springs.Bath and North-East Somerset council fears test drilling in the Mendip hills could lead to exploitation of shale gas resources through “fracking” which the local authority warns could harm the springs.

The council said two companies were applying to Mendip district council for permission to test drill for the gas, which is found in shale formed from deposits of mud, silt, clay and organic matter. It is extracted by drilling down into the ground and then by “fracking”, a process of hydraulic fracturing of the shale using high pressure liquid to release the gas.”

Sounds like it would be useful to have a broader public debate about this issue and its potential implications for rural communities.