Fracking fears over waste water could delay plans

A leading expert on radioactive waste says plans for fracking in the UK could be delayed because of problems with the disposal of contaminated water.

Radiation waste advisor, Dr Trevor Jones, told BBC Inside Out that significant investment is needed to correctly dispose of waste water from the controversial process.

The waste water contains low levels of radioactivity, which occurs naturally, but is subject to more stringent waste management rules.

Inside Out has also learned that plans for fracking in Lancashire stalled after major energy company Cuadrilla withdrew applications for radioactive waste permits.

The permits, issued by the Environment Agency, would have allowed the fracking process to go ahead; without them, the company can drill but not frack.

Cuadrilla says that it is hopeful it can overcome the issue of disposing of radioactive water. Inside Out reporter Paul Rose investigates.

BBC Inside Out is broadcast on Monday, 27 January on BBC One North West at 19:30 GMT and nationwide on the iPlayer for seven days thereafter.