VILLAGERS living near a site where fracking is due to begin at some point this year are calling for more clarity about when work will begin.

People living in Kirby Misperton, where Third Energy has received permission to begin hydraulic fracturing at its existing KM8 well, are calling for more information about when fracking will begin so they can be prepared for the additional heavy traffic expected at the site, as well as slow protests on the roads leading into the village.

Representatives from North Yorkshire County Council and police held a public meeting in the Ryedale village last week to speak to residents about what will happen once fracking gets underway.

They were warned to expect traffic levels to cause some disruption to their day-to-day lives when the site is in operation.

One resident, Graham Cray, said they had received a letter from Third Energy, informing them that work could begin from any point from Wednesday, but it did not specify a date.

“The village received a letter saying the work would begin any time after September 13th,” he said.

“There’s some concern here; we haven’t been told a precise date and can’t arrange our lives accordingly.

“If it’s within eight weeks from now that will include the half-term holidays, which is the last big push for Flamingo Land. There’s heavy traffic and it’s the thought of all these lorries on top of the Flamingo Land traffic; it’s difficult for parents and villagers.

“I’m sure we’re going to get a date, but as it is we still don’t know when work will start.”

Third Energy said they couldn’t provide a precise date until they had received final consent from various authorities to go ahead.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the energy company said: “Third Energy requires discharge of the final pre-commencement planning conditions before it can start preparations for the KM8 hydraulic fracturing operations.

“Approval is also required from the Environment Agency (EA) on some of the permit conditions. Both the Oil & Gas Authority and the EA are currently reviewing the Hydraulic Fracture Plan. Once this is approved, final consent is required from the Secretary of State.

“The recent KM8 community drop-in session at Kirby Misperton Village Hall was an opportunity for members of the public to have their questions answered and to learn how we will be protecting the environment and ensuring safe operations.

“If anyone has any other questions please email us on; northyorkshire@third-energy.com.”