(1)Where an area of land—
(a)has been designated, under section 6(2) of the [1991 c. 28.] Natural Heritage (Scotland) Act 1991 (in this section referred to as “the 1991 Act”) as a Natural Heritage Area; or
(b)is, in the opinion of Scottish Natural Heritage (in this section referred to as “SNH”), of special interest by reason of its flora, fauna or geological or physiographical features,
and SNH consider that it may at any time be affected by schemes, works, operations or activities of SEPA or by an authorisation given by SEPA, SNH shall give notice to SEPA in accordance with subsection (2) below.
(2)A notice under subsection (1) above shall specify—
(a)in the case of an area of land mentioned in paragraph (a) of that subsection, SNH’s reasons for considering that the area is of outstanding value to the natural heritage of Scotland; and
(b)in the case of an area of land mentioned in paragraph (b) of that subsection, SNH’s reasons for holding the opinion there mentioned.
(3)Where SNH has given notice under subsection (1) above in respect of an area of land and—
(a)in the case of an area of land mentioned in paragraph (a) of that subsection, the designation is cancelled or varied under section 6(7) of the 1991 Act; or
(b)in the case of an area of land mentioned in paragraph (b) of that subsection, SNH ceases to be of the opinion there mentioned,
SNH shall forthwith notify SEPA of that fact.
(4)Where SEPA has received notice under subsection (1) above with respect to any area of land, it shall (unless SNH has given notice under subsection (3) above with respect to the land) consult SNH before carrying out or authorising any schemes, works, operations or activities which appear to SEPA to be likely—
(a)in the case of an area of land mentioned in subsection (1)(a), significantly to prejudice the value of the land, or any part of it, as a Natural Heritage Area; and
(b)in the case of an area of land mentioned in subsection (1)(b), to destroy or damage any of the flora or fauna or features by reason of which SNH formed the opinion there mentioned.
(5)Subsection (4) above shall not apply in relation to anything done in an emergency if particulars of what is done and of the emergency are notified by SEPA to SNH as soon as practicable after the thing is done.
(6)In this section, “authorisation” includes any consent, licence or permission.
(7)Any expression used in this section and in Part I of the 1991 Act and not defined in this Act shall be construed in accordance with that Part.