Calls have been made in Kent to "unite in opposition" to the controversial resumption of fracking in the UK.

Hydraulic fracturing - fracking - is a technique which involves drilling into the earth in order to release the gas from shale rock; with the intention of improving energy security and lowering fuel prices.

Environmentalists have argued against the process because of the harm to the planet. Water pollution, fires and earthquake tremors have been recorded at some sites, such as Lancashire in 2019.

Despite this, a ban was lifted by the government yesterday (September 22).

Kent County Council (KCC), which has historically opposed fracking, is now reviewing its stance. Some councillors have raised objections.

KCC's cabinet member for economic development, Cllr Derek Murphy (Con), described the government changes as a "concern" during a debate at County Hall, Maidstone.

He told a panel of county councillors: "We are looking at this very carefully and it is an issue of concern."

Potential fracking sites in Kent include KCC land near the A256 at Woodnesborough.

Green county councillor Mark Hood described the return of fracking as "massively regrettable".

It comes amid an energy crisis, which will see a typical UK household's bill rise from £1,971 a year to £2,500, from October 1, for gas and electricity.

New Prime Minister Liz Truss this week announced a two-year relief package to limit costs soaring further.

At KCC's economic development committee meeting yesterday, Cllr Hood said: "We know that bringing fracking forward now will not solve the energy crisis.

"We know the geology of Kent is not conducive to fracking because we rely on groundwater."

Cllr Hood added: "I hope members will be united in our opposition to fracking."

The comments come hours after Business Secretary Jacob Rees-Mogg spoke about the return of fracking amid a heated talk in the House of Commons.

Mr Mogg told MPs fracking is necessary to improve energy security in the country. He spoke of potential financial compensation being given to affected communities.

In 2018, KCC rejected government proposals to introduce non-hydraulic fracking as the plans were deemed "contrary to local democracy" and "frustrating to local communities".

At a KCC debate, Labour county councillor Mel Dawkins questioned the latest position of the county council on fracking, given its historical opposition.

She said: "If we are going to change it, will that be going to properly to council for members to vote on?"

In response, Cllr Murphy said he will "look into" how best to move it forward as he engages in talks with KCC officers.