Anti-fracking Protesters Halt Cuadrilla Conventional Drilling in West Sussex

Anti-fracking campaigners blocked a lorry carrying the generator for the drilling site in Balcombe operated by Cuadrilla Resources, with the exploration company saying to be “hopeful that deliveries will soon be able to continue.” 

The protesters, organised by campaign group ‘Frack Off’, blocked access to the site in West Sussex, UK. According to Reuters, Cuadrilla is not intentioned to proceed with hydraulic fracturing to drill the Balcombe site.

The company’s spokesman said that they hope to respect the schedule and start drilling early next week. Cuadrilla continues community consultation, aware of the risks stemming from public resistance.

“Community blockade is stopping (Cuadrilla) … to bring equipment onto the site at Balcombe,” said protesters in their website, suggesting that “community opposition” can be “highly effective”.

According to the police, the lorry had its brake lines cut during the demonstration, but it was quickly repaired. After a seven hour stand-off, the vehicle was forced to move away.