The Public Gas Transporter Pipe-line Works (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 1999 No. 1672

Regulation 2(1)—definition of selection criteria

SCHEDULE 2 MATTERS TO BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT IN MAKING AN ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION OR GIVING A DIRECTION UNDER REGULATION 3(3)

Characteristics of proposed pipe-line works

1.  The characteristics of proposed pipe-line works must be considered having regard, in particular, to–

(a) the size of the proposed pipe-line works and of the proposed pipe-line;

(b) the cumulation with other developments;

(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.

Location of proposed pipe-line works

2.  The environmental sensitivity of geographical areas likely to be affected by proposed pipe-line works 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 member States' legislation; special protection areas designated by member States pursuant to Council Directive 79/409/EEC on the conservation of wild birds(1) and Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and 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.

Characteristics of the potential impact

3.  The potential significant effects of proposed pipe-line works 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. L103, 25.4.1979, p. 1.

(2)

O.J. No. L206, 22.7.1992, p. 7.