Decision expected on gas processing plant plans

PROPOSALS for a controversial gas processing plant in North Yorkshire will be discussed at a planning meeting next week.

Oil and gas exploration and production company Moorland Energy claims output from its Ryedale Gas Project (RGP) outside Thornton le Dale could create enough energy to power 1,600 homes.

The plans have met with opposition from residents in the area, however, who believe the scheme could harm the environment, destroy the peace of the village, hit tourism and increase traffic.

The proposals will be heard at a meeting of North Yorkshire County Council’s Planning Committee on Tuesday.

Speaking ahead of the meeting, Lawrie Erasmus, chief Executive of Moorland Energy, said:  “The Coalition Government’s draft National Planning Policy Framework seeks to promote sustainable growth and encourage development and we hope councillors will recognise the project’s strategic importance and the significant economic contribution it will make to the area.”

Mr Erasmus said the proposed scheme would boost local GDP through business taxes, increased spending on goods and services as well as the creation of 20 to 25 new jobs and up to 10 new apprenticeships.

The company also plans to relocate its exploration business to the area within the next few months.

“Exploiting the gas reserves in the area is important, given the country’s current dependence on LNG imports from the Middle East, otherwise these gas reserves will remain stranded,” Mr Erasmus claimed.

Moorland Energy is proposing to decommission the facility after 20 years.