A HEALTH impact assessment of future shale gas extraction may be undertaken by Lancashire County Council.

The authority’s cabinet will debate a proposal to set up the study.

Senior councillors have been advised by officers that the shale gas industry in Lancashire is at a very early stage and it is far from certain whether and how the industry will develop.

A report to the cabinet adds: “Reviews of the shale gas industry completed by the national body Public Health England, European Commission Directorate General for Environment and in the USA, suggest there could be potential impacts on the health of the population.”

Assessments are suggested of the two sites which have already been proposed.