Paragraph 2 Location of development

England and Wales

The environmental sensitivity of geographical areas likely to be affected by development must be considered, having regard, in particular, 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 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(c)(vi) substituted (31.12.2020) by The Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes and the Environmental Impact Assessment (Miscellaneous Amendments) (Wales) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/245), regs. 1(2)(3), 6(15); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1)
F2: Word in Sch. 3 para. 2(c)(vi) substituted (1.1.2024) by The Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Act 2023 (Consequential Amendments) (Wales) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1332), regs. 1(2), 19(7)