In May’s issue of MBR, we told you about Leith Hill Action Group (LHAG) – campaigners from Coldharbour in Surrey who are trying to stop an exploratory drilling rig from being built, courtesy of Europa Oil and Gas, in top MTB’ing spot Bury Hill Wood.

And now they’re calling on everyone to join their fight by putting pen to paper and bombarding decision-makers Surrey County Council (SCC) and Mole Valley District Council (MVDC) with letters of complaint about the proposed rig.

They have roped in scientists and experts to help them with the campaign and are expressing grounds for complaint including noise and visual pollution, and the fact that the area is registered as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

“We have been inspired by the messages of support we have received from residents in Coldharbour and Dorking and neighbouring communities,” said LHAG Chairman, Peter Wrigglesworth.

“This includes walkers, mountain bikers and people who just enjoy the unique environment surrounding the proposed location of the exploratory drilling compound.

“Europa Oil & Gas has already implied that if production is viable, then it can be done from a less sensitive site so our question is why can’t the exploration operation be undertaken from outside the AONB? We must protect Surrey Hills not violate it.”

LHAG will also be holding a fundraiser concert on Saturday 18 April in Coldharbour Church, with some talented locals taking to the stage.

The deadline for writing to the MVDC is Wednesday 15 April and for the SCC it is Thursday 23 April.

For more information and to read LHAG’s guidelines on how and when to complain go to www.thevirtualvillage.com.

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