EAST Lancashire Chamber of Commerce chief executive Mike Damms has given his backing to fracking as Cuadrilla resources two new shale gas exploration sites.

The drilling firm yesterday announced the proposed locations for the wells in the Fylde as its researches the potential of Lancashire’s shale gas resources. They are at Roseacre and Little Plumpton.

Mr Damms said: “The technical issues and science around shale extraction are complex, as they are for other sources like coal, gas and nuclear. Safety is paramount, and having a robust regulatory framework is essential.

“The early indications are that the Bowland field below Lancashire has great potential, but this needs to be tested and explored further. We hope that by adding to the economic and jobs dimension of the debate that we can ensure that Lancashire understands how important shale could be.”