Uncertainty for Rosebank as judge quashes its ‘unlawful’ approval 

The divisive Rosebank development has been plunged into uncertainty after a Scottish judge quashed its approval.

Lord Ericht’s decision, published today (Thursday) means no oil or gas can be extracted from the West of Shetland site until a fresh decision is taken.

Climate campaigners hailed the ruling as a victory - although Rosebank developer Equinor also welcomed the outcome, which allows it continue work while it seeks new consents.

Led by Uplift and Greenpeace, the legal case centred on the decision taken by the previous UK government in 2023 to approve the development.

All parties agreed the decision had been unlawful, as it failed to consider the effect of burning fossil fuels extracted from the oilfield, known as scope three emissions,

The question before Lord Ericht at the Scottish Court of Session was whether unlawful decisions should be quashed and considered afresh - or allowed to proceed.

His decision means Rosebank will have to be reconsidered - taking into account scope three emissions.

Large amounts of infrastructure and equipment for the project have already passed through Lerwick Port Authority’s Greenhead base.

Drilling had been due to commence in the first half of this year, but will have to be put on hold.

The site is thought to be the largest undeveloped oil and gas field in UK waters, containing more than 300 million barrels.

Pick up a copy of The Shetland Times tomorrow for more reaction to the decision. 

ONE COMMENT

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  • Kenneth

    • February 3rd, 2025 12:09

    I would like the judges to read the findings on the ice receding in Wyoming USA on the internet.
    Where it clearly states that the world was warmer around 6000 years ago.
    Where trees grew on the slopes then,
    but under conditions now the trees would not grow.
    This proves the world conditions has nothing to do with climate change.
    The world goes in cycles and what ever we do will never change the circumstances.
    So let the people live in peace and prosperity in a warm and safe environment with the fossil fuels until we have a safer fuel to use. Not EV cars they will set this world on fire if we carry on with that unstable system.

    REPLY

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