Public Perceptions of Hydraulic Fracturing on the Fylde Coast

Abstract

Fracking has been taking place in one way or another for 60 years. In more recent years the process has been developed to become more economically and logistically viable. This controversial, but some would argue necessary, process is causing concern to some residents of the Fylde in the Northwest of England.

Through primary and secondary data collection consisting of questionnaires, an interview and a literature review, this research aims to understand the feelings of the residents of the Fylde with regards to the process and implications associated with Hydraulic Fracturing.

Results from the primary research show a strongly adverse attitude, albeit not 100% fact based. Questionnaires were completed by a random sample of residents at the shopping centre Freeport in Fleetwood, which is situated in the Fylde. Results from the quantitative data showed a more mixed attitude to the whole process with varying degrees of understanding of what Fracking actually is. The result of this lack of understanding seemed to be reflected in people’s attitude to the process. An interview was held with a member of Residents Against Fylde Fracking (RAFF), this made up the qualitative element of the research, unsurprisingly the responses to the questions asked were negative on the whole.

It is felt that this dissertation met its aims and objectives but more could have been done to make the results a little less biased.