Pierce is a joint venture between Shell (Shell share 92.52%) and Ithaca Energy (UK) Limited (Ithaca share 7.48%).

Scott Robertson, Area Manager – Central North Sea at the OGA said: “We are pleased to approve this development, which follows the approvals last year of the Shearwater-hosted Arran, Fram, Columbus and gas export projects. This latest Pierce Gas de-pressurisation development secures approval of another component of the Central Graben Area Plan, developed by the OGA and industry collaborating to maximise economic recovery from this region of the North Sea.”