PLANS to drill for oil in woodland near Rowlands Castle have been dropped.
An ‘important notice’ statement on the South Downs National Park website confirmed the news this afternoon.
The notice regarding the planning application by UK Oil and Gas to drill a series of wells in Markwell’s Wood in Forestside contained little in the way of detail.
The notice on www.southdowns.gov.uk said: “Important notice regarding SDNP/16/04679/CM – Markwell’s Wood – 1 Well Site, South Holt Farm, Dean Lane End, Forestside, Rowlands Castle, West Sussex.
“This application has now been withdrawn by the applicant. Further information will be available in due course.”
The application drew plenty of opposition from residents and environmental groups concerned about the effects drilling would have on the surrounding countryside, the village and the environment.
Keith Taylor, Green Party MEP for the South East and a vocal anti-oil and gas drilling campaigner, said: "This is a welcome victory for the campaigners, environmental activists and local residents who have been providing a united opposition to these drilling proposals.
"Markwell’s Wood is a beautiful and unique habitat and with only two per cent of Britain being covered by this important ancient woodland, I am extremely happy that it is going to stay that way.
"The triple threat of water supply contamination, wildlife and biodiversity loss, and local community and woodland tourism harm has been averted, for now."