Part 2Conservation and enhancement of natural features

Chapter 1Sites of special scientific interest

Exercise of functions in relation to sites of special scientific interest

12Exercise of functions by public bodies etc.

(1)

This section applies to the exercise by a public body or office-holder of any function on, or so far as affecting, any land which is or forms part of a site of special scientific interest.

(2)

The body or office-holder must—

(a)

consult SNH in relation to the exercise of the function,

(b)

have regard to any advice given by SNH, and

(c)

in exercising the function, take reasonable steps, so far as is consistent with the proper exercise of the functions of the body or office-holder, to—

(i)

further the conservation and enhancement of the natural feature specified in the SSSI notification, and

(ii)

maintain or enhance the representative nature of any series of sites of special scientific interest to which the SSSI notification contributes.

(3)

This section is without prejudice to sections 13 to 15.