1,000 signatures reached
To: Lincolnshire County Council
Say ‘No’ to New Oil Drilling in the Lincolnshire Countryside
We call on Lincolnshire County Council to protect the rural landscape and end local communities’ years of anxiety, by rejecting Egdon Resources’ proposal to explore for oil at North Kelsey.
Why is this important?
In the lea of the Lincolnshire Wolds, down a single-track lane, lies a tranquil haven. Deer, owls, bats, lapwings, skylarks and countless other wildlife depend on this rural habitat. Wide grassy verges are mini eco-systems brimming with native flowers and insects; it is an area rich in bio-diversity, enjoyed by countless tourists, cyclists, walkers and riders.
Drilling for oil in this location is proposed by Egdon Resources. This industrialisation of our countryside will bring pollution in the form of noise, air, light and traffic to nearby residents and villages. It will adversely affect the well-being and safety of local people. Our country roads are not safe thoroughfare for numerous HGVs and other site traffic. If Egdon discover oil, the damaging exploitation may continue for up to 20 years, flying in the face of our international commitments to limit global warming.
Despite initially being granted permission in 2014, and notwithstanding numerous time extensions, Egdon have not yet commenced work on the site. A dark cloud of uncertainty has already hung over local residents for seven years. This is unfair and unreasonable. It should not be allowed to continue. A group of local people keen to protect our community and our environment have come together. Through our collective conscience, and fully recognising our responsibilities to future generations, we oppose this development.
The COP 26 summit drew global attention to the climate & ecological emergency. Lincolnshire County Council seeks to ‘lead the way’ through the implementation of its Green Masterplan which aims to, “find innovative solutions to global climate issues”. In this context, a proposal to embark on new fossil fuel exploration in our countryside is unfathomable.
“Sustainable development” is defined as “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” Exploration for new fossil fuels does not fulfil that criteria; it brings immediate local harm and represents future global devastation.
By signing this petition, you inform Lincolnshire County Council that you object to the development outlined in planning applications PL/0167/21 and PL/0168/21, and urge them to refuse permission.
Anyone can sign our petition but please also tick the check-box if you live, work or study in Lincolnshire. Thank you.
