Location of development
2. 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 Member States’ legislation, areas designated by Member 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 EU legislation have already been exceeded;
(vii)densely populated areas;
(viii)landscapes of historical, cultural or archaeological significance.
O.J. No. L 20, 26.1.2010, p. 7.
O.J. No. L 206, 22.7.1992, p. 7.