Paragraph 2 Location of development

(1)

The environmental sensitivity of geographical areas likely to be affected by development must be considered, with particular regard, to—

(a)

the existing and approved land use;

(b)

the relative abundance, availability, quality and regenerative capacity of natural resources (including soil, land, water and biodiversity) in the area and its underground;

(c)

the absorption capacity of the natural environment, paying particular attention to the following areas—

(i)

wetlands, riparian areas, river mouths;

(ii)

coastal zones and the marine environment;

(iii)

mountain and forest areas;

(iv)

nature reserves and parks;

(v)

European sites and other areas classified or protected under national legislation;

(vi)

areas in which there has already been a failure to meet the environmental quality standards, laid down in F1F2assimilated law and relevant to the project, or in which it is considered that there is such a failure;

(vii)

densely populated areas;

(viii)

landscapes and sites of historical, cultural or archaeological significance.

Annotations

Textual amendments

F1: Words in Sch. 3 para. 2(1)(c)(vi) substituted (31.12.2020) by The Environmental Assessments and Miscellaneous Planning (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2018 (S.I. 2018/1232), regs. 1(2), 6(13); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1)
F2: Word in Sch. 3 para. 2(1)(c)(vi) substituted (27.2.2025) by The Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Act 2023 (Consequential Amendments) Regulations 2025 (S.I. 2025/82), reg. 1(2), Sch. 5 para. 4(b)