THE Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) is warning that low petrol prices may not take pressure off the pursuit of shale gas, and that fracking still remains the energy option in Hampshire.

During a meeting on February 3, Edward Dawson, trustee of the Hampshire branch of the CPRE, shared the organisation’s objective assessment of hydraulic fracturing – or ‘fracking’ – with members of the Odiham District University of the Third Age.

In his talk, entitled The Question of Shale Gas, Mr Dawson pointed out that the CPRE has no objection in principle to shale gas exploration and extraction, as long as any drilling observes the strict guidelines suggested by the Royal Academy of Engineering, and planning conditions are put in place to deal with traffic and landscape issues.

He added: “Shale gas is a potentially strong source of energy but we all need to know that it is safe and not disruptive. We have tried to explore the policy issues and the techniques being used in its exploration. It seems that using shale gas utilises many of the techniques which have been used for on-shore oil and gas over many years. In addition, the depth at which explosive charges are used is too far down to affect the surface.

“The country needs a wide diversified range of energy sources. The price of oil has dropped over recent months, and the pressure has eased on indigenous sources. However, many new licenses have been granted for exploration in the south of England, and these may be implemented over time.”

Gas may be preferable to use than coal, and it is an important resource. North Hampshire has long experience of on-shore oil. Humbly Grove oil field, near Alton, was discovered in 1980 and produced oil and gas for 30 years.

The current position nationally includes:

* Licensing – December 2015 announced by Oil and Gas Authority: 159 blocks licensed in 14th on-shore round, 75 per cent relate to unconventional shale gas or oil;

* Employment – thought to create some 60,000 jobs;

* Access rights – Landowner’s permission to access underground land. DECC considering whether the current trespass law is fit for purpose;

* Price – With the price of oil so low, there is no rush in the south of England. CPRE Hampshire will respond to any applications within its area and maintain an independent, critical view.

It will judge such applications on their merits and without a pre-scripted or formulated approach.