Reform mayor courted US oil and gas executive about fracking in UK

The Guardian World

by Hajar Meddah

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Lincolnshire’s Reform Party mayor, Dame Andrea Jenkyns, has taken proactive steps to explore opportunities in the oil and gas industry following a significant gas discovery in her county. Earlier last year, Egdon Resources, a British subsidiary of US-based Heyco Energy, announced a major gas find in Lincolnshire’s Gainsborough Trough. In response, Jenkyns reached out directly to the company’s leadership, expressing her willingness to assist and support efforts to bring fracking operations to the area. The move by Jenkyns highlights her commitment to leveraging local resources for economic growth, despite ongoing debates over the environmental and health implications of fracking. As the first mayor of Greater Lincolnshire, she has positioned herself as an advocate for utilizing shale gas reserves to boost the regional economy. This approach aligns with the broader political and industrial interests in capitalizing on energy opportunities, even amid concerns about potential negative impacts. The disclosure of her outreach underscores the intersection of politics and business in shaping energy policies. Critics argue that fracking poses risks to public health and the environment, while proponents emphasize its potential to create jobs and reduce dependence on foreign energy sources. Jenkyns’ actions reflect a broader trend among policymakers weighing these competing priorities as they seek to balance economic development with environmental stewardship. This story is significant for readers interested in global energy policies and their impact on local communities. It raises questions about the role of elected officials in shaping energy futures, particularly in regions where natural resource extraction holds promise but also carries risks. As debates over fracking continue, Jenkyns’ initiative serves as a case study in how political leadership can influence the trajectory of industrial projects with far-reaching consequences.

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/24/2026