The government has recently given the go-ahead for Cuadrilla to continue using the controversial fracking process to exploit underground shale gas in Lancashire.

Drilling was suspended following two small earthquakes near Blackpool.

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Although banned in some European countries, in the US, the gas released by fracking has helped reduce energy prices. This may not happen in the UK though unless all Europe countries back shale gas too, as Europe is tied into to a ‘grid’ system that allows gas to be traded to the highest bidder.

Fracking has only taken place on the extreme fringes of Preston. However, now Cuadrilla have the green light to continue drilling sites could pop up all over the area.

Preston Council has put forward a motion to Instruct the Environmental Scrutiny Panel to undertake a proportionate and timely study to investigate the environmental impact of fracking as the council is dedicated to providing a greener and cleaner city and as such is committed to the promotion of renewable energy sources.

The motion states that shale gas embeds the economy within the ‘carbon culture’ that is environmentally destructive and produces climate change.

Preston is looking to proclaim itself as a ‘frack free city’ and, as a consequence, prohibit
fracking on all Preston County Council land.

As part of this action they will work with environmental groups, trade unions and other local authorities to host a one-day conference of the dangers of fracking and the role of local authorities in opposing fracking developments.

Preston City Council further resolves that for a period of 12 months, starting from 13 December 2012 the Council will, in principle, resist all requests to use Council land for fracking activity or requests for financial support or otherwise for fracking in Preston.

The motion seeks that all such requests should be considered by the Corporate Director Environment and the Executive Member for Community and Environment before consideration.

The motion was proposed by Councillor Lavalette.

We will report on the outcome of the proposal as soon as we know more.

What do you think about fracking? Are you currently in a drilling area? Let us know in the comments below