SCHEDULE 3Selection Criteria Referred to in Article 4.3 of the Directive

Regulation 2(2) — definition of “selection criteria”

Characteristics of development1

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.

Location of development2

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 birds25 and Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora26;

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.

Characteristics of the potential impact3

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.