An energy firm planning to carry out tests for gas in Cheshire have had their proposals rejected by councillors. It is believed the tests could later lead to fracking.
After anti-fracking protesters greeted councillors, Cheshire West and Chester Council's planning committee voted 10 to 1 to reject IGas's plans for Ellesmere Port because of "climate change" concerns.
IGas denied that the gas tests were related to fracking plans and said that they were considering an appeal against the council ruling. The company told planning officers its plans "do not involve any drilling or deepening of the existing well and does not involve hydraulic fracturing (fracking)".
A Labour member of the Council pointed out that "We've seen unprecedented opposition to this application", with 1,411 objections received.
IGas could yet get the go ahead for their proposals if they appeal to the Secretary of State. Spokesman for the company, John Blaymires, said:
"Major employers in the area rely on gas for power and providing raw materials, so big employment is dependant upon local gas... We will consider whether or not an appeal is something that might be for the future."
