HAVING contacted Nicola Sturgeon recently on the subject of fracking (I am still awaiting a response), I have been following the recent correspondence (Letters, October 10 & 13) with interest.
I have noticed that most comments relate to problems in relation to the outcomes of drilling such as air and water pollution, resultant health issues and potential earthquakes. However, there are several other side-effects of fracking, like diminished quality of life from proximity to developed sites and heavy goods traffic servicing them. Communities are divided with some enjoying financial benefits (jobs) at the expense of others (drastic falls in property values).
Contrary to some reports, not all American fracking sites are in the wilderness and developments have been banned in a number of areas in both the US and Canada. If you think wind farms are invasive, you ain't seen nothing yet.
I have gleaned a lot of my information from PBS America's documentary, Fracking: Shattered Ground. It is available online and I would suggest that it is required viewing for anyone interested in the subject. It has certainly convinced me that this technology is totally unsuitable for densely populated areas such as central Scotland.
Gordon Evans,
5 York Drive, Burnside, Rutherglen, Glasgow.
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