BCMESL is well-versed in
terms of the requirements of Directive 92/43/EEC (the Habitats Directive)
on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora
that any plan or project not directly connected with or necessary
to the management of a designated habitats site, (i.e., a SPA or
SAC), but likely to have a significant effect thereon, either individually
or in combination with other plans or projects, is to be subject
to an Appropriate Assessment of its implications for the site in
view of the site's conservation objectives.
For example, on one of his more recent pipeline projects the potential
need for an appropriate assessment in relation to potential effects
of pipeline construction adjacent to Blawhorn Moss SSSI and SAC
was alleviated by re-routing the pipeline and using specialist construction
techniques. Similarly, much of the work recently undertaken as part
of the work for Sefton Council / Merseyside Environmental Advisory
Service, (see Sefton WeBS-based
Low-tide Surveys and Ornithological and Environmental Management
Guidance and Advice), is aimed at
providing a sound basis for future appropriate assessments on this
highly designated stretch of coastline.
As is mentioned in the preceding section, (see Ecological
and Environmental Advice and Guidance), BCMESL completed
a detailed report which will be used as the basis for the appropriate
assessment which may be required in relation to the Longriggend
/ Upperton housing development. This development is c. 1 km outside
the boundaries of the Slamannan Plateau SPA, which is designated
for its wintering Bean Goose population, and as such SNH required
to be satisfied that there would be no adverse effect on the qualifying
interest of the SPA, i.e., the Bean Geese.
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