Nexen Exploration has been given the go-ahead to begin a coalbed methane extraction project in Manchester, England, according to the Trafford-based Messenger.

The project, which will be specifically located in Davyhulme, was approved on Sept. 9 by a unanimous vote conducted by the Trafford Council planning committee. The committee, along with Nexen, has noted that they have high hopes for the venture.

“This will be a very exciting project,” said Michael Whetton, a councilor on the committee.

“It is a very useful and worthwhile project with great long-term implications,” said Daniel Bunting, also a councilor.

The first stage in the project will entail approximately two months of drilling to reach the coalbed methane. It will be directly followed by up to four months of production testing to determine if the site has the merit to support sustained operations. If tests results are positive, Nexen will bring in the equipment needed to process the methane and turn it into a viable fuel source.

“We believe it is a very viable concept which will add value to the local community,” said David Kerr, a representative from Nexen.