Planning Circular 2/2004: strategic environmental assessment for development planning

PLANNING CIRCULAR 2 2004

ANNEX A

SCHEDULE 1 Regulation 13

CRITERIA FOR DETERMINING THE LIKELY SIGNIFICANCE OF EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT

1. The characteristics of plans and programmes, having regard, in particular, to-

(a) the degree to which the plan or programme sets a framework for projects and other activities, either with regard to the location, nature, size and operating conditions or by allocating resources;
(b) the degree to which the plan or programme influences other plans and programmes including those in a hierarchy;
(c) the relevance of the plan or programme for the integration of environmental considerations in particular with a view to promoting sustainable development;
(d) environmental problems relevant to the plan or programme; and
(e) the relevance of the plan or programme for the implementation of Community legislation on the environment (for example, plans and programmes linked to waste management or water protection).

2. Characteristics of the effects and of the area likely to be affected, having regard, in particular, to-

(a) the probability, duration, frequency and reversibility of the effects;
(b) the cumulative nature of the effects;
(c) the transboundary nature of the effects;
(d) the risks to human health or the environment (for example, due to accidents);
(e) the magnitude and spatial extent of the effects (geographical area and size of the population likely to be affected);
(f) the value and vulnerability of the area likely to be affected due to-

(i) special natural characteristics or cultural heritage;
(ii) exceeded environmental quality standards or limit values; or
(iii) intensive land-use; and
(g) the effects on areas or landscapes which have a recognised national, Community or international protection