Policy information sourced from the Buckinghamshire Minerals and Waste Local Plan

9: Energy Minerals

The exploration and appraisal of oil and gas (including appraisal drilling) and/or commercial production of oil and gas will be supported where it can be demonstrated that:

  • the site and equipment is not located within the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) or its setting; and
  • specific to exploration and appraisal, there would be no adverse impact on the underlying integrity of the geological structure and water resources; and
  • potentially adverse impacts are able to be avoided and/or minimised to acceptable levels; and
  • the site will be restored to an acceptable condition and afteruse, where possible incorporating beneficial outcomes, with appropriate aftercare provided for, as soon as possible following cessation of works regardless of whether oil or gas is found; and
  • it is compliant with relevant MWLP policies.

Pertaining to proposals for exploration and appraisal of oil and gas, particular regard will be made to the long-term suitability of the site for commercial production and distribution.

The exploration and appraisal/commercial production from sites outside the Chilterns AONB of potential/proven oil and gas resources within the Chilterns AONB and its setting will be supported in exceptional circumstances, where (in addition to the before listed criteria) it can be demonstrated that the reasons for the designation are not compromised; the proposal is in the public interest; and there is a need for the development, including in terms of any national considerations, giving consideration to the impact of permitting it, or refusing it, upon the local economy. Consideration should also be given to the cost of, and scope for, meeting the need for it in some other way. In addition any proposal would need to identify any detrimental effects on the environment, landscape and recreational opportunities, and the extent to which such effects could be moderated.

Proposals for the commercial production of oil and gas must demonstrate that:

  • a full appraisal programme for the oil and gas field has been completed; and
  • the proposed location is the most suitable, taking into account environmental, amenity, geological, traffic and technical factors.

For more information please see the Buckinghamshire Minerals and Waste Local Plan