About the Preesall Project

Why the need for underground storage facilities?

Natural gas production in the UK is in significant decline and the UK became a net importer of gas in 2004. By 2020 the UK could be importing 80% of its gas and to insure against interruptions to supply, the UK needs to increase its gas storage capacity. By storing the gas in underground caverns in the UK, we will be better able to meet the demands for gas.

Gas storage is absolutely crucial for the security of the UK's energy supply and the gas storage facility in Preesall will serve the national interest. Worldwide there are currently over 600 underground gas storage salt caverns. There are four sites in the UK which have underground gas storage caverns.

Safety is the number one priority for Canatxx. A full Risk Assessment of the project will be conducted with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) prior to construction. The HSE will continue to maintain its role as the ultimate safety authority through to decommissioning and we will work closely with it throughout the process to ensure the highest safety standards are maintained.

How will it affect the Preesall community?

The land owned by Canatxx has been used for fishing, shooting and rambling for many years. The project will not affect these activities; in fact Canatxx intends to invest further in the area's wildlife and preserve the open countryside for generations to come.

Once construction of the project is completed, the effect of the gas storage facility on the local population will be minimal. Even during construction, the effect will be very localised as the facility is well away from the nearest centres of population and will be built in phases.