A THEME park has opposed plans to frack in Ryedale over claims the controversial drilling could harm their animals.

Bosses at Flamingo Land have written to North Yorkshire County Council's Planning Committee to express their concerns about plans to frack in Kirby Misperton.

Directors fear the proposals will only be the tip of the iceberg, and more expansive sites will be built if their current plans are approved.

The letter said: "Our fear is that the current application is merely the start of a process which will lead to at least 40 local drilling sites within the Ryedale district, then tourism within our area will be negatively affected permanently.

"We were informed that the used water would be piped to containers, removed and treated, but now, this does not seem to be the case. Additionally, we now have concern for our beloved, and in many cases critically endangered, animal collection’s welfare.

"The treatment of water was a fundamental issue to Flamingo Land and we have reconsidered our position on the issue of fracking due to the difference between what we were assured of and what is now being applied for."

The strongly opposed plans would see a mix of chemicals and water blasted deep underground to extract shale gas.

Campaigners claim the process can affect people's health, and now the theme park - which boasts a large zoo and conservation - says it is also concerned about the safety of its customers.

The letter continues: "Over and above our animal collection we now have health concerns for local residents, visiting public and our resort guests. During the summer season, overnight visitor numbers exceed those of towns the size of Malton."

Rasik Valand, chief executive of Third Energy, said: "The Kirby Misperton site has produced gas a short distance from Flamingo Land for over twenty years without any impact and we have been pleased to see our neighbour thrive. Flamingo Land can be reassured that Third Energy would do nothing that would cause any harm to that much-loved business.

"The Institute of Directors predicted that around 100 well pads would be model for the whole of the UK industry.

"This would all be subject to the very early exploration wells and fracs being consistently successful, and once there is evidence that the geology and gas presence is proven across the region."

The committee will meet on May 20 to consider Third Energy's proposals.