Waverley Lib Dems celebrate halt to oil and gas drilling in the Surrey Hills

Sustained legal action from Lib Dem-led Waverley Borough Council - action which had a material impact on the share price of UK Oil & Gas PLC (UKOG) and its ability to raise capital - and dedicated work undertaken by the local community, has ensured that UKOG drilling will no longer take place in the Surrey Hills. 

This development marks a significant victory for the community, environmental campaigners, and Lib Dem councillors, who have strenuously opposed UKOG exploration and extraction.

As stated by Waverley Borough Council, the Dunsfold site, located adjacent to the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), is home to numerous protected species and is a cherished part of the local landscape. Lib Dems have consistently argued that drilling at this site would have disastrous consequences for the community, local wildlife, and the wider environment. 

Councillor Paul Follows, Lib Dem Leader of Waverley Borough Council, stated: "The onshore extraction of fossil fuels is incompatible with the Climate Emergency declared by our council, Surrey County Council, and the national government. We must focus on sustainable and renewable energy sources to address the urgent challenges of climate change. This decision is a step in the right direction and reinforces our commitment to protecting our environment for future generations." 

Under its current, Lib Dem leadership, Waverley Borough Council remains committed to advocating for sustainable development and will continue to work with local communities to ensure that the natural beauty and biodiversity of the area are preserved.