SCA consolidates appeal process in challenge against West Coast drilling

The Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) has consolidated an appeal process in a legal challenge against oil and gas drilling off the west coast.

This, after the Western Cape High Court recently set aside environmental authorisation for the drilling to go ahead unless lawful approval is granted.

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The court has ruled that the State and Shell’s application for leave to appeal will be heard together, with the full merits of the case, in a single, consolidated hearing.

Environmental groups Green Connection and Natural Justice have welcomed the decision, saying it allows the court to fully consider alleged failures in the original approval process.

"This is a very important matter, especially when we are actually experiencing geopolitical tension that has led to a spike in energy prices,” said the Green Connection's Lisa Makaula.