Europa Oil and Gas says it is to appeal against the loss of its onshore exploration assets in France after they were not renewed.
The European-focused oil and gas firm had 100% of two permits in the Aquitaine Basin, near Pau, but saw them lapse earlier this year.
But the company said today it had lodged against losing the permits – for Bearn de Gaves adn Tarbes Val d’Adour – with the French authorities, with Europa facing writing off more than £1m exploration costs if unsuccessful.
“The Minister of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Energy is required to provide final sign-off for all exploration permits in France and we note there was a change of Minister during the renewal process,” said chief executive Hugh Mackay.
“Our appeal for both permits to be renewed has been submitted to the new Minister and we will be seeking a resolution as a matter of priority.”