TALISMAN Energy could start production drilling on its Godwin oil field in the second quarter of next year.
In an environmental assessment submitted to the energy secretary, the firm said it would be developed using an extended-reach well leading back to the Talisman-operated Arbroath platform, 117 miles east of Peterhead.
Further production and then export would be via the Montrose Alpha platform, the Forties field and Cruden Bay. As part of the development, topside modifications would be made to the Arbroath platform.
Talisman said drilling using a jack-up rig alongside the Arbroath platform was due to start in the second quarter next year, at the earliest.
Godwin had flowed at 7,500 barrels of oil equivalent per day when tested previously.