AREAS in south Herefordshire are now licensed for fracking following a government vote, reports the Hereford Times.
The Wye Valley and Forest of Dean were part of the 159 Petroleum Exploration and Development Licences awarded for fracking across England voted through in the House of Commons on December 16.
But before a licensee can start operations it must apply for planning and other permissions.
The Forest of Dean and Symonds Yat are within the proposed areas.