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ARTICLE · 25 SEPTEMBER 2013

Fracking - What Does It Mean For UK Property?

Bircham Dyson Bell LLP
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Hydraulic fracturing or "fracking" is the process of drilling and injecting fluid into the ground at high pressure in order to fracture shale rocks and release natural gas.

United KingdomEnergy and Natural Resources
Jennifer Chappell
Jennifer Chappell

Hydraulic fracturing or "fracking" is the process of drilling and injecting fluid into the ground at high pressure in order to fracture shale rocks and release natural gas. The topic is currently never far away from media interest since the UK mainland lifted its ban on shale gas fracking in December 2012. Since then there have been several attempts to set up exploration sites across the country. So what's all the drama about?

The technique has been around since 1947 and has been used in the UK for offshore extraction of North Sea oil for many years without concern. However, using the technique onshore sets rumours adrift of water from taps being set on fire, increased numbers of earthquakes and greater global warming. So does fracking deserve this image problem?

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