Union Jack Oil PLC (AIM:UJO) told investors Rathlin Energy intends to submit a new planning application for the West Newton A site in Yorkshire after a previous request was refused by the local council.
The new application will address local concerns over the project’s size and will be submitted before the end of 2021, a statement from Rathlin Energy, the project operator said.
“Despite the [planning] officers' recommendation for approval, the application was refused, with the scale of the development being an important factor in the committee's final determination,” Rathlin said.
“While we continue to receive legal advice regarding an appeal of the decision, re-submitting a revised application is a viable option. Having received the decision document explaining the reasons for refusal, we are now working on a revised approach for the proposed development, in line with the comments made by your Council representatives.”
Rathlin said in a letter addressed to local residents and the West Newton Community Liaison Group that it intends to reduce the size of the project footprint and reduce the number of wells planned for the site.
It also plans to provide a more detailed landscape and planting proposal to enhance the screening of the site, along with examining more extensively the potential for passing places along Pasture Lane and other traffic management proposals.
The project operator said as the new application would be of a smaller scope than before the prior environmental assessments should only need minor amendments.
Referring to the West Newton B site, Rathlin said current planning permission requires operations to be completed by April 2022. As it is unlikely the originally proposed work scope will be finished before the expiration date it will apply to vary this condition.
Rathlin added: “Hydrocarbons will continue to play an ongoing and essential role in UK, for both energy supply and as a raw material, now and for the next generation of East Riding of Yorkshire residents and businesses.
“Over the next 25 years there will be a co-ordinated and concerted effort to reduce emissions and we are absolutely committed to supporting the UK government in this transition phase.
“Using locally sourced resources will not only help to reduce the risks associated with being a net hydrocarbon importer, but it will also act as a more environmentally friendly stepping-stone to support the evolution to a more sustainable future.
“We are committed to working with East Riding of Yorkshire Council and the local community to bring about the production of local hydrocarbons in a responsible manner."
Union Jack Oil holds a 16.665% interest in the West Newton project.