Plans that could lead to fracking near an idyllic Sussex village and a nature reserve have upset residents.

Energy company Celtique Energie wants to dig a 24-hour exploration well near Wisborough Green.

It is searching for gas and oil but admitted it could apply for hydraulic fracturing, also known as ‘fracking’, if shale gas is discovered.

The controversial practice involves blasting sand, water and chemicals to release shale gas – a process which was suspended after an earthquake near a fracking site in Blackpool.

Miranda Alderton, who lives in Kirdford Road, a quarter of a mile from the proposed site, said: “People definitely think the long-term plan is fracking. Everyone’s very upset about it.

“It’s going to really upset the wildlife. We can’t believe it. It will be so sad if it goes through.

“If they get permission they could be fracking there for the next 30 years.

“We just don’t think it’s a very suitable place. They say it will be good for villagers but that’s nonsense.

There’ll be light pollution and drilling 24 hours a day.”

The proposed well is adjacent to Northup Copse, a Sussex Wildlife Trust nature reserve and designated Site of Nature Conservation Importance, rich in ancient woodlands and hedgerows.

Sussex Wildlife Trust has raised concerns about the potential impact on biodiversity, protected species and designated sites.

Janyis Watson, head of conservation, said: “We believe that disturbance during both the construction and operational phases will impact on both people and wildlife using our nature reserve.”

A spokesperson for campaign group Frack Off said: “Celtique has gone to extraordinary lengths to deny its interest in shale, or ‘unconventional’ fuels.

“By muddying the waters around what it is drilling for, Celtique have been able to obscure the truth that their Sussex drilling programme includes provision for fracking, hidden under the guise of less controversial methods.”

Geoff Davies, chief executive officer of Celtique, said: “We are reviewing what practical measures we can take to ensure that the impact on both Wisborough Green and Kirdford is minimised.

“We have committed not to undertake hydraulic fracturing in this proposed well.

“Any use of hydraulic fracturing in any new well on the site in the future would be subject to further consultation.”

A planning application is expected in the coming weeks.