Calls for blanket ban on fracking in Ryedale rejected

Councillors at an Extraordinary Meeting held in Malton’s Milton Rooms, were told by council solicitor and monitoring officer Anthony Winship that agreeing to a motion put forward by councillor John Clark for Ryedale District Council to completely oppose all fracking in Ryedale could lead to severe legal action.

Mr Winship warned that passing the motion could give rise to a judicial review and potentially cost the council £250,000.

He said: “The adoption of an unlawful blanket policy in relation to fracking has potential serious implications.

“If the council have to be challenged and there is a judicial review it is expected that its own legal costs could amount to about £50,000.”

Mr Winship said that the council could also be responsible for up to £200,000 of the applicant’s legal costs.

• Fracking: Reader's letters>>

Third Energy, which has been drilling in the area for more than 20 years, plans to submit a planning application later this year to carry out test fracks at an existing well-site in Kirby Misperton.

About 120 people gathered at the meeting and anti-fracking protestors held up A4 Frack Free Ryedale signs with the words “we won’t vote for politicians who condone fracking.”

Leader of the council, Coun Linda Cowling speaking to councillors and members of the audience said: “I have all the same concerns you have. When and if we say no to fracking I want that no to be able to stand up legally under scrutiny.”

Speaking after the meeting Coun Di Keal said: “I am totally against fracking being inflicted on our community and countryside.

“The Tory group on Ryedale District Council voted against a motion to make Ryedale a frack free council, ignoring the views of the many people in the area who are totally opposed to this invasive and hugely damaging industry coming to Ryedale. By hiding behind legal advice they have put the health and well-being of local people at risk.”