Hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, is a technique designed to recover gas and oil from shale rock. Fracking is the process of drilling down into the earth before a high-pressure water mixture is directed at the rock to release the gas inside. Water, sand and chemicals are injected into the rock at high pressure which allows the gas to flow out to the head of the well.The process is carried out vertically or, more commonly, by drilling horizontally to the rock layer. The process can create new pathways to release gas or can be used to extend existing channels.
Processing and approval of applications related to fracking in the Winchester district is a matter for the two Minerals and Waste Authorities, Hampshire County Council and the South Downs National Park Authority.
Information concerning sites in Hampshire being considered for fracking can be found on the Hampshire County Council site
