Under threat are areas of outstanding natural beauty in the Weald, which runs between the north and south downs, and the South Downs national park, Greenpeace said. Activists are protesting against plans by Europa Oil and Gas to drill and test for oil in Bury Hill Wood. Photograph: Mark Kerrison/AlamyTo the west of Horse Hill is Holmwood, which Europa Oil and Gas plans to drill during the second half of this year. The site is in an area of outstanding natural beauty, which the company said planners had concluded would not be impacted by oil drilling. “There’s no new technology here, it’s a typical Weald basin oil prospect.”The company has planning permission, and the Environment Agency has said it is minded to approve the project.

Source: The Guardian March 15, 2018 16:21 UTC