Paragraph 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; 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 EEA States' legislation;

(vi)

special protection areas designated by EEA States pursuant to Directives 79/409/EEC^f1 and 92/43/EEC^f2;

(vii)

areas in which the environmental quality standards laid down in legislation of the Communities have already been exceeded;

(viii)

densely populated areas; and

(ix)

landscapes of historical, cultural and archaeological significance.

Annotations