Should exploratory drilling for oil and gas be allowed in the South Downs National Park?

A decision on whether exploratory drilling for oil and gas can take place at Fernhurst in the South Downs National Park is to be made later. The proposal has provoked protests from some local residents. Exploratory drilling took place in nearby Balcombe last year. The park's planning committee is looking at Celtique Energie Weald Limited's application for Nine Acre Copse - which includes a well, access road and soil bunds - for a temporary period of three years..

Members of the South Downs National Park Authority's Planning Committee are being recommended to refuse planning permission by SDNPA officers as it is a protected landscape and not in public interest.