The Offshore Petroleum Production and Pipe-lines (Assessment of Environmental Effects) Regulations 1999

Location of projects

2.  The environmental sensitivity of geographical areas likely to be affected by projects 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;

(vi)special protection areas designated by member States pursuant to Directive 79/409/EEC(1) and 92/43/EEC(2);

(vii)areas in which the environmental quality standards laid down in Community legislation have already been exceeded;

(viii)densely populated areas; and

(ix)landscapes of historical, cultural or archaeological significance.

(1)

O.J. No. L103, 25.4.1979, p.1.

(2)

O.J. No. L206, 22.7.1992, p.7.