On Tuesday 15 March Ryedale District Council’s Planning Committee will consider an application from Third Energy UK Gas Ltd to start fracking at Kirby Misperton. Although the final decision rests with North Yorkshire County Council, the recommendations of Ryedale will be a crucial factor.
The Planning Committee will need to consider the impact of fracking on tourism and the local economy (Flamingo Land is of course in Kirby Misperton, for example), the effect on the countryside around Kirby Misperton, and whether the increased traffic by HGVs will cause problems for local residents, cyclists, horse riders and pedestrians in the lanes around the village. Air and water pollution, noise and vibration, as well as 24-hour lighting at the site are all issues that will need to be assessed. The fact that the full Ryedale Council has already passed a motion calling for a 5-year moratorium on fracking may be expected to have some influence on the Planning Committee’s decision.
The meeting starts at 6pm at Ryedale House, Malton and is open to the public. Parking is available on site.