5 Further provision as regards functions of Highlands and Islands Enterprise.S
(1)For the purposes of its general functions mentioned in section 1(b)(i) and (iii) of this Act, Highlands and Islands Enterprise shall (without prejudice to the generality of that section)—
(a)keep under review all matters relating to the economic and social well-being and development of the Highlands and Islands;
(b)after consultation with such local authorities [F1, National Park authorities,] and other bodies as appear to it to have an interest, from time to time prepare and submit to the Secretary of State for his approval proposals (whether general or specific in character) for the economic and social development of the Highlands and Islands or any part thereof;
(c)concert, promote, assist or undertake measures to implement any proposals so approved;
(d)to such extent as it considers appropriate, undertake or assist the undertaking of the development, re-development and improvement of the environment;
(e)to such extent as it considers appropriate, bring derelict land into use or improve its appearance or assist its being so brought or improved; and
(f)advise the Secretary of State on such matters relating to its functions as he may refer to it or as it may think fit,
and shall discharge such other functions as are conferred by, under or by virtue of this Act.
(2)The Secretary of State may approve, in whole or in part, any proposals submitted to him under subsection (1)(b) above, or may refuse to approve them.
(3)In exercising its functions, Highlands and Islands Enterprise shall (without prejudice to its general function of furthering improvement of the environment) have regard to the desirability of safeguarding—
(a)the natural beauty of the countryside in;
(b)the flora and fauna of; and
(c)the geological and geomorphological features of special interest of,
the Highlands and Islands.
Textual Amendments
F1Words in s. 5(1)(b) inserted (8.9.2000) by 2000 asp 10, s. 36, Sch. 5 para. 16 (with s. 32); S.S.I. 2000/312, art. 2