Defra: Introduction of new habitats evidence plan process for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects

摘要

In September 2012, Defra published guidance, which explains a new process for developers of nationally significant infrastructure projects ("NSIPs") in England, or both England and Wales. An evidence plan: 1. Is a formal mechanism to agree at the start with statutory nature conservation bodies what information an applicant for an NSIP needs to supply to the Planning Inspectorate as part of a development consent order ("DCO") application. 2. Should reduce delay by ensuring applicants provide sufficient habitats information to identify whether an appropriate assessment of an NSIP is required because it is likely to have a significant effect on habitats or wildlife protected under the Habitats and Wild Birds Directives.