SCHEDULE 1 SELECTION CRITERIA FOR SCREENING OPINIONS
Location of developments2
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; and
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 M1 and Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora M2;
vi
areas in which the environmental quality standards laid down in Community legislation have already been exceeded;
vii
densely populated areas; and
viii
landscapes of historical, cultural or archaeological significance.