Anti-Fracking Camp Set Up In Wrexham

An anti-fracking protection camp has been set up on the proposed site for testing for underground gas in Borras.

The camp, which was set up on Friday night follows the news that proposals for GP Energy to drill on land near Commonwood Farm, Borras had been granted.

Earlier this month a controversial appeal to test drill on the land near Borras was given the go ahead by an independent inspector.

The planning application to drill in Borras was initially rejected by Wrexham Councillors at the start of the year, who raised concerns over environmental issues and the lack of information on the actual drilling process.

The location map of the camp that is being circulated.

Clive Nield, an Inspector appointed by Welsh Ministers has granted the appeal, stating: “I consider the proposal would not be unsustainably located and that risks of it causing pollution, geological instability or subsidence would be negligible. The proposal would be in accordance with development plan and national policy.”

However an anti-fracking protection camp has since been established on the site, with local residents gathering in the area to show their support for the cause.

So far a mini campsite has been set up on the land with work taking place on setting up a toilet for the site.

A separate group called ‘Borras and Holt Community Protection Camp’ has also been created on Facebook, stating it has been established: “To protect Wales from the onslaught of the highly controversial processes of drilling and extracting unconventional oil and gas resources.”

In a video posted on the Facebook page anti-fracking campaigners can be seen entering the site at night, with one stating: “Wrexham Council have just had an appeal overturned after voting unanimously to ban fracking.

“We are here, taking this field preventing fracking in solidarity with the local council, the people of Wrexham and Wales and the world. Frack off.”

However a wish list has also been posted on the Community Protection Camp Facebook page to help with the camp. The list includes items such as: Pallets, a sign with the group name, a spade, food / milk / tinned good, bedding, airbeds, wood burning stove, flyers, teabags etc.

Up the road in Upton in Chester a similar camp has been created and occupied since April this year, indicating the potential longevity of such activity.

Further information on how to get involved and help / donate to the camp can be found on the Borras and Holt Community Protection Camp Facebook page here.