Updated: Added summary of responses. Published 24 January 2014.
On 19 July 2013 the government published planning practice guidance for onshore oil and gas. Its intention was to provide clarity on the role of the planning system in taking forward applications for oil and gas development, including the important exploratory stage of extraction.
The written ministerial statement published on the same day stated that the government would undertake a short consultation on amending existing secondary legislation in relation to application requirements and fees for onshore oil and gas development.
This paper sets out a number of proposals for possible changes to secondary legislation. Where appropriate, any changes will be accompanied by short planning guidance.