We will generally oppose shale gas drilling applications that are in or would materially impact on nationally designated sites such as National Parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs), and Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs)) and other specially valued landscapes. Given the considerable prevalence of gas bearing shale reserves, no economic case can be made to justify the potential desecration of such landscapes.

In other locations CPRE Sussex wants to do everything in its power to strengthen the hand of regulators to prevent irretrievable harm happening where shale gas applications are considered across the County. Our concern is to protect the countryside and natural environment. Our priority is to shield cherished landscapes and rural quality of life and health, and the eco-systems of which we form an inextricable part.

We will campaign for the regulatory authorities to embed a cautious approach, expect the highest standards of policy and practice, and a transparent process which listens to - and does not push out - local concerns. In particular we will press for an Environmental Impact Assessment for every application, and for a requirement for baseline surveys recording water and soil quality before and after drilling takes place.

Image © shielabythesea

Download the National CPRE policy documents below