MEP hits out over oil drilling permission
THE south-east's Green Euro MP has condemned West Sussex County Council for allowing Northern Petroleum to dig into ancient woodland on the South Downs in search of oil.
Caroline Lucas said: "In giving the green light to an oil giant to rip out parts of the South Downs for oil, the county council has shown complete disregard for the area's natural heritage and utter indifference to the concerns of its residents.
"The proposed drilling will have a disastrous effect on the natural surroundings and those members of the local community who at present enjoy the natural landscape of Markwells Wood. I very much hope that the project will not jeopardise the bid to make the South Downs a national park.
For full story see West Sussex Gazette May 21