Information for Planning Applications

Design and Access Statements

Most planning applications must now be accompanied by a Requirement for Design and Access Statements to explain and justify the proposal in a structured way.  Nature conservation needs to be considered in these reports.  Further guidance for incorporating biodiversity within new developments. 

Environmental Impact Assessment

An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) may also be necessary with planning applications that are likely to have a significant impact on the environment.  It is an assessment of a project's likely significant environmental effects which helps to ensure that the importance of the predicted effects, and the scope for reducing them, are properly understood. Proposals for the development of land in specially designated areas are more likely to need an Environmental Impact Assessment.

Appropriate Assessment

Under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 any proposal which may have a significant effect upon a European nature conservation site (Special Protection Area or Special Area of Conservation), or a Wetland of International importance (Ramsar Site) or a species protected by European Legislation will need to be subject to an 'appropriate' assessment.  The applicant will be required to provide the relevant information to enable the Local Planning Authority, with guidance from Natural England, to ascertain whether the proposal will have an adverse impact on the nature conservation of the site.