The Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015

Regulation 2(2) definition of “selection criteria”

SCHEDULE 3 Selection criteria referred to in Article 4.3 of the Directive

1. Characteristics of development

The characteristics of development must be considered having regard, in particular, to—

(a) the size of the development;

(b) the cumulation with other development;

(c) the use of natural resources;

(d) the production of waste;

(e) pollution and nuisances;

(f) the risk of accidents, having regard in particular to substances or technologies used.

2. Location of development

The environmental sensitivity of geographical areas likely to be affected by development must be considered, having regard, in particular, to—

(a) the existing land use;

(b) the relative abundance, quality and regenerative capacity of natural resources in the area;

(c) the absorption capacity of the natural environment, paying particular attention to the following areas—

(i) wetlands;

(ii) coastal zones;

(iii) mountain and forest areas;

(iv) nature reserves and parks;

(v) areas classified or protected under EEA states’ legislation; areas designated by EEA states pursuant to Council Directive 2009/147/EC on the conservation of wild birds(1) and Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora(2);

(vi) areas in which the environmental quality standards laid down in Community legislation have already been exceeded;

(vii) densely populated areas;

(viii) landscapes of historical, cultural or archaeological significance.

3. Characteristics of the potential impact

The potential significant effects of development must be considered in relation to criteria set out under paragraphs 1 and 2 above, and having regard in particular to—

(a) the extent of the impact (geographical area and size of the affected population);

(b) the transfrontier nature of the impact;

(c) the magnitude and complexity of the impact;

(d) the probability of the impact;

(e) the duration, frequency and reversibility of the impact.

(1)

O.J. No. L 20, 26.1.2010. p7

(2)

O.J. No. L206, 22.7.92, p.7