Initial exploration indicates reserves of methane gas trapped in coal seams beneath Longtown in Cumbria. Between 300 and 1500m below ground level, these reserves could supply gas for up to 25 years if they prove commercially viable. Whilst new in the UK, Coal Bed Methane (CBM) is common in the US and Europe where it makes a valuable contribution to overall energy supplies.

Although the wellheads would not need manning, the reserves would create up to a dozen new engineering positions within a new service centre. Methane could either be pumped straight into the gas supply network, or could be used to generate electricity for distribution into the National Grid. The sites are suitably distant from residential developments and there will therefore be no unacceptable impact on local residents.

The reserves were discovered during test drilling across a 16m² area between Longtown and Canonbie carried out in 2007. RPS, acting as the client’s agent, has produced site selection reports and prepared the necessary planning and EIA submissions. Further tests, subject to planning permissions, are intended for three more sites nearby – two sites near Longtown, and one near Canonbie. If results from these are promising, more tests may be planned at other sites in the region.

For more information please contact:
RPS Edinburgh (Leith) – Planning & Development
T: +44 (0)1315 555 011