Water UK, the body which represents all the UK water companies, is joining a three-year European Commission work programme to develop a best available technology reference document for oil and gas, which will take full consideration of environmental protection.
Water UK said that over the past 4 years its positioning has been focused on ensuring that if shale gas developments are to take place, they can do so with the water utility fully involved and with water and waste water concerns addressed from the outset.
Since Water UK first expressed its concerns, supported by research from UKWIR, the organisation said it has engaged with key stakeholders and developed ways of working. It has also pushed for and achieved statutory consultee status in shale gas developments, supported government in their promotion of baseline monitoring and worked with the Commission on the development and assessment of their "Principles" Recommendation.
Water UK commented:
“Up to now, not one well has been drilled for shale gas or oil in the UK, though this is largely as a result of public concerns and planning difficulties. Operators are still confident that shale gas is a viable resource, but this is a continuing matter for debate. What is clear is that if and when drilling does take place, the concerns and interests of water utilities can be addressed.”
Attendees at next month’s National Civils Show, Floodex, National Drainage Show and Waterways Management on 26th and 27th November are set to benefit from an expert speaker line-up and the opportunity to visit a wide range of exhibitors all co-located in one place at Excel, London, one of the UK’s leading international exhibition and convention centres.
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