Gagged Southport campaigners to protest against government plans to allow frackers to frill at will

Local campaigners wearing gags will protest in Lord Street, Southport on Saturday 13th October against government plans to reduce the voice of local communities in decisions about exploratory drilling for gas.

The government proposals would bring drilling under ‘permitted development’ – rules which were originally designed for minor home improvements like putting up a garden shed, not major oil or gas drilling infrastructure. This would mean that fracking companies could drill without the need to apply for planning permission.

Paul Bradshaw of Frack Free Southport said:

“The government wants to include gas drilling rigs in legislation designed to make it easier to put up a garden shed. This would limit the voice of local communities over major industrial development around Southport. Decisions about gas drilling should be taken by the local council. We must let communities decide”.

The government’s plans have already been opposed by around 20 Conservative MPs. The campaigners are calling on Damien Moore, MP for Southport, to also voice his opposition.

Paul Bradshaw added:

“If the government’s plans go ahead, whole swathes of England could be opened up to fracking development. It’s great that several MPs have already spoken out against these plans. We’re calling on Damien Moore add his voice to theirs”.