UK Oil Site Poised for Relaunch Amid Energy Security Concerns
The 'Gatwick Gusher' in Surrey could restart production next year, with its operator warning of potential supply shocks if Britain doesn't increase domestic energy control.
The Horse Hill oil and gas field, located near Gatwick Airport, may resume production as early as next year, following plans by British firm Energy B to acquire full control of the site. The company is in the process of buying the remaining stake in the operating company, Horse Hill Developments, after acquiring UK Oil and Gas's (UKOG) holding in June.
Energy B chief Neil Ritson stated that increased domestic production could help reduce Britain's growing reliance on imported energy. He warned that the UK is at risk of a "supply shock" due to its limited energy storage capacity, which leaves it vulnerable to disruptions in global supplies or sudden demand spikes. Ritson explained that the country's buffer is "unusually small," forcing it to purchase gas at high costs during crises, with consumers ultimately bearing the expense.
The proposed relaunch of the Gatwick site hinges on approval from the Government's North Sea Transition Authority, which oversees oil and gas production in the UK. A decision is also pending on a new planning application, including an emissions assessment, submitted in May 2026. If granted, Ritson indicated that drilling could commence in early 2027.
"Oil and gas will remain part of the country's energy mix for decades, and it is better for bills, jobs, carbon emissions and for national security if these resources are controlled in Britain," Ritson said. He added that a country with greater energy self-sufficiency benefits from a buffer and retains associated jobs and tax revenue.
The Horse Hill site gained attention in 2014 when UKOG drilled a well that preliminary estimates suggested could contain nearly 20 million barrels of oil, sparking comparisons to the "Dallas" oil boom. However, subsequent assessments raised questions about the recoverability of the oil.
In June 2024, the Supreme Court ruled that the full climate impact of the Horse Hill project should have been assessed before Surrey County Council granted planning permission. The controversial site suspended production by autumn of that year.
Energy B's initiative to revive the Gatwick site occurs amid broader discussions about the UK's energy strategy. Energy secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh noted that a decision on the Jackdaw gas field in the North Sea is "imminent," and discussions continue regarding the Rosebank oil field.
Ritson highlighted that domestic fields like Jackdaw could contribute significantly to British gas supply, supporting jobs and generating substantial tax revenue, according to industry assessments.