Winchester oil appraisal plans slammed by WinACC

The plans, at the wellsite near Matterley Farm, were refused by the South Downs National Park in 2020, however it was overturned at an appeal in 2021.

The proposal, from IGas Energy Ltd, is for the 'retention of wellsite and existing surface and sub-surface infrastructure for a further period of five years in order to allow for further appraisal of oil and gas'.

This comes after the Government approved scores of new licences for drilling in the North Sea and wildfires sweeping across Rhodes and Corfu, blamed on global warming part caused by the use of fossil fuel such as oil and gas.

Appraisal of the site had taken place from 2009 to 2017 but ceased due to fluctuating international oil prices. 

READ MORE HERE: Hampshire Chronicle views on the revival of oil well

Winchester Action on the Climate Crisis (WinACC) chairman Dr Alex Clayton described it as a threat to the environment.

Dr Clayton said: “We are dismayed by the damage and pollution that this will cause.

“The plans show that highly polluting gases associated with the oil pumping, including methane, are going to be simply released into our air. This will damage the environment. 

“Earlier this year we called on Hampshire County Council to revise their Minerals and Waste Plan to prevent new oil drilling licences being awarded locally. But a revised plan will not be in place before 2025 which is too late for this site. There is a very real threat to the environment that must be addressed.

“The scientific consensus is clear. Actions like this will take us to dangerously high temperatures and climate impacts like the wildfires we are seeing across Europe. This oil extraction should not happen.”

Dr Clayton added that the work would make up five per cent of the district's total emissions.

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In a letter to the Chronicle, Cllr Jackie Porter, who represents the Itchen Valley ward on Hampshire County Council, said: “This decision to pursue exploration and appraisal of the oil field is deeply disappointing. Whilst there is a potential value to investors, I believe that the environmental damage would far outweigh any financial gain.”

In the Planning Inspectorate's appeal decision, it said: “The main issue is whether or not the proposal would conserve and enhance the landscape, scenic beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the South Downs National Park.

“There is no dispute between the parties that there is a national need for onshore oil and gas, as part of a diverse and secure energy supply. 

“I have found that the proposal would not compromise the reasons for designation of the National Park and there is a demonstrable need for the oil exploration development. Furthermore, the required infrastructure is already in place, which would avoid environmental impacts associated with drilling and construction activities.

“In order to conserve and enhance the National Park, I have imposed a condition to limit the planning permission to a period of five years and to require restoration of the site.”

IGas Energy Ltd had been contacted for a comment.