Conservation of habitats

Important habitats are identified as Sites of Community Importance (SCIs). Relevant bodies work to conserve land within or adjacent to these sites. Consent to develop on such sites can be granted, but only following appropriate assessment. It must be proven that a proposed operation will not affect the integrity of the SCI.

UK agencies must also review consents previously granted under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. They may modify or withdraw those that are incompatible with the conservation objectives of the site.

The Regulations also enable the establishment of management schemes and further laws by the relevant authorities. These laws will be for the management and protection of European marine sites.

Protection of species

The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 is amended. More animals are included in the list for which it is an offence to intentionally capture, kill or disturb. The legislation also makes it illegal to deliberately pick, collect, cut, uproot or destroy a number of listed plants. These actions can all be legalised with the granting of a licence.

Planning permission

The Regulations require competent authorities to consider or review planning permission applications which affect a European site. Planning permission may be restricted or revoked if the integrity of a site would be damaged.