THE search for natural gas poses “huge risks” to the environment of the River Ouse Valley, it has been claimed.
Drinking water could become contaminated and the railway infrastructure put in jeopardy, protesters have warned.
Concern centres on the headwaters of the Ouse where controversial hydraulic fracturing – fracking – has been proposed at Balcombe by US multinational Cuadrilla.
The process involves sending a concrete pipe down and sideways for thousands of feet. Holes are blown in the sides of the pipe using explosives and a mixture of water, sand and toxic chemicals is pumped down the pipe at high pressure.
This forces the rock to crack, releasing the gas which returns up the pipe to be carried away in tankers.
Opponents say much of the toxic mix remains in the ground and can leach into groundwater.
A public meeting is due to be held in Lewes today (Friday) at Subud House, 26a Station Street (7.30pm) to discuss widespread concern.
Sussex Express
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