Today the Environment Agency has varied the permit for Cuadrilla’s operations at Preston New Road to include the use of nitrogen as we carry out the well test.  Using nitrogen to assist in initiating well production is a standard process in the oil and gas industry.  Cuadrilla has undertaken a detailed Best Available Techniques (BAT) assessment to demonstrate that this technique is environmentally sound. A detailed air quality modelling and assessment exercise has concluded that no unacceptable impacts are predicted.  In granting the permit variation today, the Environment Agency has agreed with our assessments and our proposed approach.

See here for a link to the Environment Agency’s information on the permit variation.