All plans and projects in Ireland are screened to determine whether they have potential to cause impacts on Natura 2000 sites (Special Protection Areas and Special Areas of Conservation). This assessment is carried out by planning authorities, but supporting information may be requested from the applicant to assist with the process.
Screening is a preliminary assessment of potential impacts on Natura 2000 sites, including direct impacts (e.g. loss of habitat), far-reaching indirect impacts (e.g. water pollution, noise disturbance) and cumulative impacts (combined impacts from other developments nearby). The legislation states that a precautionary approach to risk management should be adopted, whereby impacts should be considered in a worst-case scenario and without reference to mitigation measures.
If an ecologist concludes that there is no risk of significant impacts on Natura 2000 sites, they can submit a Screening for Appropriate Assessment report to recommend that a full Appropriate Assessment is not required. However, if impacts are likely or uncertain, it will be necessary to proceed to Stage 2 of the Appropriate Assessment process, and the ecologist should prepare a Natura Impact Statement (Republic of Ireland) / Habitats Directive Assessment (Northern Ireland) to assessment impacts in greater detail.
If you require a Screening for Appropriate Assessment please contact us for a quote or further advice.
Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) in Ireland
Special Protection Areas (SPAs) in Ireland