fferences to date between Scotland and England: In England some revenue passed back to local Councils – Scotland has not followed suit; planning in England – the law has been changed so that there is no requirement for landowners to be notified where drilling is occurring under their land. In Scotland this requirement remains; significant political support in England – less so in Scotland.
In all probability fracking is en route. It may take a few years for the industry to develop but if America’s industry keeps expanding in the same manner it is most likely the UK will follow suit. The UK government is proactive in promoting the industry and if it is successful south of the Border then the likelihood is Scotland would follow.
• Kirsty Macpherson is head of the energy, climate change and natural resources group at Gillespie Macandrew www.gillespiemacandrew.co.uk