Appropriate Assessment

The Habitats Directive (European Directive 92, 43, EEC) was brought into force in the UK by The Conservation (Natural Habitats and c.) Regulations 1994. A competent authority, usually the planning authority, must carry out an Appropriate Assessment of plans or projects that alone, or in combination with other plans or projects, are likely to have a significant effect on a European site (Natura 2000 sites). The competent authority must consult appropriate nature conservation bodies, consider their representations and be satisfied that the project will not adversely affect the integrity of the European site before any planning permission for a plan or project can be granted.

Where a significant effect is considered likely, permission could still be granted if reasons of overriding public interest can be demonstrated.

What are Natura 2000 sites?

• A network of sites designated for their ecological importance, and given the highest level of protection
• Natura 2000 sites include: Special Protected Areas (SPA) and Special Areas of Conservation (SAC)
• Sites are designated to protect Qualifying Features, such as significant populations of scarce species or areas of scarce habitat

Call on the experienced RML team to assist you. We will:

• Identify and deal with constraints created by European designated sites
• Prepare screening reports to determine whether full Appropriate Assessment is required
• Consult statutory bodies, and prepare the necessary information to demonstrate the nature, scale and significance of any effects
• Produce the Statement to Inform an Appropriate Assessment, to be presented to the competent authority
• Provide mitigation measures to eliminate potential adverse effects

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