Policy NH 1 - European and Ramsar Sites - International

Policy NH 1 - European and Ramsar Sites - International Planning permission will only be granted for a development proposal that, either individually or in combination with existing and/or proposed plans or projects, is not likely to have a significant effect on: a European Site (Special Protection Area, proposed Special Protection Area, Special Areas of Conservation, candidate Special Areas of Conservation and Sites of Community Importance); or a listed or proposed Ramsar Site Where a development proposal is likely to have a significant effect (either alone or in combination) or reasonable scientific doubt remains, the Department shall make an appropriate assessment of the implications for the site in view of the site's conservation objectives. Appropriate mitigation measures in the form of planning conditions may be imposed. In light of the conclusions of the assessment, the Department shall agree to the development only after having ascertained that it will not adversely affect the integrity of the site. In exceptional circumstances, a development proposal which could adversely affect the integrity of a European or Ramsar Site may only be permitted where: there are no alternative solutions; and the proposed development is required for imperative reasons of overriding public interest; and compensatory measures are agreed and fully secured. As part of the consideration of exceptional circumstances, where a European or Ramsar site hosts a priority habitat or priority species listed in Annex I or II of the Habitats Directive, a development proposal will only be permitted when: it is necessary for reasons of human health or public safety or there is a beneficial consequence of primary importance to the environment; or agreed in advance with the European Commission.