PART 1Environmental governance
CHAPTER 1Improving the natural environment
Environmental improvement plans
11Reviewing and revising plans: interim targets
1
On the first review of the first environmental improvement plan, the Secretary of State must revise the plan so as to—
a
set at least one interim target in respect of each relevant matter, and
b
secure that there is at all times, until the end of the 5 year period beginning with the relevant date, an interim target set by the plan in respect of each relevant matter.
2
On any other review of an environmental improvement plan, the Secretary of State must make any revisions to the plan which are necessary in order to—
a
set at least one interim target in respect of any matter that has become a relevant matter since the previous review, and
b
secure that there is at all times, until the end of the 5 year period beginning with the relevant date, an interim target set by the plan in respect of each relevant matter.
3
A “relevant matter” means any matter in respect of which there is a target under sections 1 to 3.
4
Subsection (2)(b) does not apply in respect of a matter if the specified date for the target under sections 1 to 3 in respect of that matter is before the end of the 5 year period beginning with the relevant date.
5
On a review of an environmental improvement plan, the Secretary of State may revise or replace any interim targets set by the plan in respect of a relevant matter (subject to subsection (2)(b), where it applies in respect of the matter).
6
An interim target in respect of a matter must specify—
a
a standard to be achieved, which must be capable of being objectively measured, and
b
a date by which it is to be achieved.
7
The date must be no later than the end of the 5 year period beginning with—
a
for the first interim target in respect of a matter, the relevant date;
b
for subsequent interim targets in respect of a matter, the later of the relevant date and the date specified for the previous interim target.
8
Before setting or revising an interim target in respect of a matter the Secretary of State must be satisfied that meeting the target, or the revised target, would make an appropriate contribution towards meeting the target under sections 1 to 3 in respect of that matter.
9
The “relevant date” is the date on which the review is completed.