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SCHEDULE 3SELECTION CRITERIA FOR SCREENING SCHEDULE 2 DEVELOPMENT

Location of development

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;

(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 birds(1) and Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora(2);

(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 archaeological significance.

(1)

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

(2)

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