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Prior to planning permission being sought, the company intends to consult with local NGOs, community groups and government. This consultation will include information relating to managing risks, independent environmental assessment and safety evaluation as well as the technical issues surrounding the project stages. We intend that this consultation will take place at a local level in places such as supermarkets, schools, colleges, public libraries, and town halls.
Once the project has been worked up to the drilling phase, we intend to invite interested parties to join a public group that would ensure ongoing dialogue with the community. In the longer term, a visitor educational centre would be provided at each processing site, to inform the public of the benefits of the project to the community, the country and the environment.
UCG provides a unique opportunity to create economic value from the UK’s coal reserves and generate high value employment without undue technological, safety or environmental risk. It has low visual impact, none of the legacy risks associated with nuclear power, and will not suffer the variability in output associated with renewable wind or wave energy.. It is a sustainable long-term development free from geopolitical risks and volatile hydrocarbon prices. It will position the coal industry to take advantage of future ‘clean energy’ demands and alter any perception that coal is yesterday’s fuel.
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