SCHEDULE 3 Selection Criteria Referred to in Article 4.3 of the Directive
Regulation 2(2) — definition of “selection criteria”

1 Characteristics of development
The characteristics of development must be considered having regard, in particular, to—
(a) the size of the development;
(b) the cumulation with other development;
(c) the use of natural resources;
(d) the production of waste;
(e) pollution and nuisances;
(f) the risk of accidents, having regard in particular to substances or technologies used.

2 Location of development
The environmental sensitivity of geographical areas likely to be affected by development must be considered, having regard, in particular, to—
(a) the existing land use;
(b) the relative abundance, quality and regenerative capacity of natural resources in the area;
(c) the absorption capacity of the natural environment, paying particular attention to the following areas—
(i) wetlands;
(ii) coastal zones;
(iii) mountain and forest areas;
(iv) nature reserves and parks;
(v) areas classified or protected under Member States' legislation; areas designated by Member States pursuant to Council Directive 79/409/EEC on the conservation of wild birds and Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora;
O.J. No. L103, 25.4.79, p. 1
O.J. No. L206, 22.7.92, p. 7
(vi) areas in which the environmental quality standards laid down in Community legislation have already been exceeded;
(vii) densely populated areas;
(viii) landscapes of historical, cultural or archeological significance.

3 Characteristics of the potential impact
The potential significant effects of development must be considered in relation to criteria set out under paragraphs 1 and 2 above, and having regard in particular to—
(a) the extent of the impact (geographical area and size of the affected population);
(b) the transfrontier nature of the impact;
(c) the magnitude and complexity of the impact;
(d) the probability of the impact;
(e) the duration, frequency and reversibility of the impact.