A PETITION calling on energy companies not to frack in York has been launched by Liberal Democrat councillors.

A spokesman said the Government is currently consulting on proposals that would see planning processes "bypassed" and that the scheme would "remove York’s local influence on any fracking proposals."

Cllr Ian Cuthbertson, Liberal Democrat councillor for Haxby and Wigginton, said: “There is huge concern amongst many local residents in Haxby and Wigginton about the environmental impact of fracking.”

“Fracking is not the solution to the country’s growing energy problems - other sources of energy, including renewable, are fast making any plans to introduce fracking irrelevant. This proposal is another step in Tory efforts to roll back the green agenda, which Liberal Democrats fought hard for whilst in government.

“The recent suggestions by Government to fast-track fracking are a direct attack on York’s ability to influence decisions which affect its own residents and their property.

"I would strongly encourage everyone in Haxby and Wigginton to sign our petition and let the Government know that fracking will not be accepted in Haxby and Wigginton.”

Visit yorklibdems.org.uk/fracking for more information.