What changed in the draft NPPF for onshore oil and gas?

Reports on 22 December indicate the draft NPPF removes the instruction to give “great weight” to the economic benefits of onshore oil and gas. That change would lower the policy preference that previously supported such schemes. Decision makers would place more emphasis on local impacts, cumulative effects, and climate policies. While still draft, national policy at this stage can be a material consideration. If the final text remains similar, applicants would likely face tougher planning balances across England.

Could North Yorkshire Council lawfully delay the Burniston gas decision?

Yes. Committees can defer when new material considerations arise, such as a draft national policy that may alter the planning balance. A deferral lets officers seek legal advice, update their report, and run any necessary reconsultation. The goal is a robust, defensible decision. Given the attention on Burniston and the strength of local submissions, a short delay to consider draft NPPF changes would fall within normal UK planning practice and reduce procedural risk.

What does this mean for Europa Oil & Gas shareholders?

Shareholders face higher planning risk on UK onshore projects. For Europa Oil & Gas, this may mean slower approvals, tighter conditions, and higher advisory costs. Markets often discount timelines when policy is shifting, so updates that clarify schedule, budget, and scope matter. If Burniston is delayed or refused, appeal options remain, but outcomes would depend on the final NPPF. If approved with constraints, economics may narrow, yet execution visibility could improve, which markets usually reward.

Is the Burniston ‘proppant squeeze’ the same as fracking?

Opponents describe the plan as fracking, while the company has referred to a proppant squeeze, which is a stimulation technique. The exact classification is part of the local debate and will be assessed through planning and regulatory processes. For investors, the key point is not the label, but how regulators evaluate environmental impact, traffic, noise, and emissions. Those findings, plus national policy weightings, will shape conditions, timing, and the overall likelihood of approval.

Global Market Insights

EOG.L Stock Today: December 22 — Draft NPPF Cuts ‘Great Weight’ for Onshore Oil, Clouding Burniston

ByHuzaifa Zahoor December 23, 2025December 23, 2025

Europa Oil & Gas faces a fresh planning test after 22 December 2025 reports that draft NPPF planning changes remove giving “great weight” to onshore oil and gas. Friends of the Earth urged North Yorkshire Council to delay the Burniston gas decision, citing the policy shift and strong local opposition. For EOG.L, the move raises regulatory risk for UK onshore timelines and approvals. With more than 1,500 objections noted, investors should watch how policy weightings, local impacts, and legal advice shape the committee’s next steps.