The Offshore Electricity Development (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2008

SCHEDULE 3 Selection Criteria

Characteristics of Development

1.  The characteristics of developments must be considered having regard, in particular, to —

(a) the size of the development;

(b) the cumulation with other developments;

(c) the use of natural resources;

(d) the production of waste;

(e) pollution and nuisances; and

(f) the risk of accidents, having regard in particular to substances or technologies used.

Location of Developments

2.  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; and

(c) the absorption capacity of the natural environment, paying particular attention to sensitive areas.

Characteristics of the Potential Impact

3.  The potential significant effects of developments must be considered in relation to criteria set out under paragraphs 1 and 2, 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; and

(e) the duration, frequency and reversibility of the impact.