Controversial plans for a fuel pipeline from Fawley Refinery have been scrapped, ExxonMobil has confirmed. 

In a statement, the company said proposals for a CO2 pipeline from Fawley to the English Channel have been abandoned due to a "lack of Government policy certainty and timelines". 

As reported by the Echo - more than 1,400 people have signed an online petition against the plan which would have sees millions of tonnes of the greenhouse gas dumped underground.

The decision was first revealed by New Forest East MP, Dr Julian Lewis who said the project was thought to be "uncompetitive" due to the £5 billion investment involved and lack of government plans. 

A spokesperson for ExxonMobil said: ‘’As a result of the continued lack of Government policy certainty and timelines, ExxonMobil will not proceed with the appraisal of CO2 storage opportunities in the English Channel, and associated transportation, at this time.

‘’Our major investment decisions are informed by several factors including the policy, fiscal and market environment.

"Over the past three years, we have made sustained efforts with UK government to secure this certainty and enable the large-scale investment required and will maintain collaboration to address the necessary factors.

‘’We are committed to reducing emissions from our operated assets and continue to evaluate a range of emission reductions solutions that can deliver meaningful CO2 emissions reductions.’’

Three possible routes for the pipeline were previously put forward including two on the western side of the Isle of Wight and one that would cut through the New Forest and go under the Solent between Milford and Barton.

In a post on his website, Dr Julian Lewis MP said: "This will come as a great relief to numerous constituents in the Forest and on the Island.

"I commend ExxonMobil both for its willingness to think again and its assurances that its valued and vital contribution to the local economy will continue, despite this reluctant but welcome change of course.”

The Liberal Democrat Group on New Forest District Council also welcomed the decision.

Cllr Malcolm Wade, Group Leader said: "The pipeline would effectively cut through protected natural areas and disrupt ecosystems and habitats.

"The construction process alone would have a substantial impact on the natural environment requiring an enormous amount of clearance; destroy natural vegetation and cause significant land and soil disturbance by compaction and root disturbance, which in turn would impact crops and natural habitats.

"In addition there would considerable impact and disruption on New Forest people and communities, all of which is now thankfully going to be avoided.

“We need to be looking at investing in green energy - so wind, solar, tidal - is where the future should be. 

“Our National Park is a precious asset and needs our protection for future generations.

"Exxon Mobil globally made $8.2bn profits in the first quarter of this year.  We were not prepared to preside over such wanton destruction for yet more short term commercial gain."