UK-based Corallian Energy has revealed that the UK Government had looked favourably upon its plans for two offshore exploration wells.
The Offshore Petroleum Regulator for Environment and Decommissioning, which sits within the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, has advised the Oil and Gas Authority of its “in-principle agreement to the issue of the relevant consents” for both projects, Corallian said.
"There are several regulatory approvals and notifications still required before the consenting process is completed for the wells, the oil and gas exploration and appraisal company said.
When all the necessary approvals have been obtained, the wells will be drilled as a back-to-back programme using the ENSCO-72 Jack-Up rig, and subject to the approvals being in place Corallian will commence the programme with the drilling of the Wick well during December 2018.
Following completion of the Wick well, the rig will be mobilised from the Moray Firth to the English Channel to drill the Colter well.
Fraser Well Management Limited will be the Well Operator for the drilling of the wells. Orbis Energy Limited are the environmental consultant to the projects. No further announcements are planned by Corallian until all the approvals are in place and the drilling has commenced.