3.—(1) The Department may direct that—
(a)a particular development of a description described in column 1 of the table in Schedule 2 and which does not meet the conditions in sub-paragraphs (a) and (b) of the definition of “Schedule 2 development” is EIA development;
(b)in accordance with Article 2.4 of the Directive (but without prejudice to Article 7 of the Directive), a particular proposed development specified in the direction is exempted from these Regulations where the application of the Regulations would result in adversely affecting the purpose of the development, provided the objectives of these Regulations are met; or
(c)these Regulations do not apply in relation to a particular proposed development specified in the direction if the development comprises or forms part of a project having the response to civil emergencies as its sole purpose and the application of the Regulations would have an adverse effect on that purpose.
(2) Where a direction is made under paragraph (1), the Department shall send a copy of the direction to the council or councils in whose district the proposed development is to be situated.
(3) Where a direction is made under paragraph (1)(b), the Department shall—
(a)make available to the public the information considered in making the direction and the reasons for making the direction;
(b)consider whether another form of assessment would be appropriate; and
(c)take such steps as are considered appropriate to bring the information obtained under the other form of assessment to the attention of the public.