BARNSLEY Council has been accused of ‘supporting fracking’ by the campaign set up to oppose the controversial practice coming to Barnsley.
The No Fracking in Barnsley Campaign has highlighted a section of Barnsley Council’s Local Plan which is currently open for public consultation.
A spokesman for the No Fracking in Barnsley Campaign said the wording of the local plan could be ‘seized upon’ by fracking companies.
A Barnsley Council spokesman said: “Barnsley Council does not have a policy position on fracking. The matter will be treated objectively, abiding by due process as and when it is brought to the council’s attention.
“The government has published the licences for shale gas exploration, and Barnsley is covered by the government’s permitted areas. Any companies licensed to explore for shale gas within the council’s area will need to obtain the necessary planning permission in the first instance.
“Barnsley Council will ensure its planning obligations are implemented correctly, and that any application is determined by its planning and regulatory board.”
