1.
Characteristics of development. The
characteristics of development must be considered having regard, in particular,
to -
- the
size of the development;
- the
cumulation with other development;
- the
use of natural resources;
- the
production of waste;
- pollution
and nuisances;
- the
risk of accidents, having regard in particular to substances or technologies
used.
2.
Location of development. The
environmental sensitivity of geographical areas likely to be affected
by development must be considered, having regard, in particular, to -
- the
existing land use;
- the
relative abundance, quality and regenerative capacity of natural resources
in the area;
- the
absorption capacity of the natural environment, paying particular attention
to the following areas
- wetlands;
- coastal
zones;
- mountain
and forest areas;
- nature
reserves and parks;
- 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 and Council Directive 92/43/EEC
on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora;
- areas
in which the environmental quality standards laid down in Community
legislation have already been exceeded;
densely populated areas;
- landscapes
of historical, cultural or archaeological significance.
3.
Characteristics of the potential impact. The
potential significant effects of development must be considered in relation
to criteria set out under paragraphs 1 and 2 above, and having regard
in particular to -
- the
extent of the impact (geographical area and size of the affected population);
- the
transfrontier nature of the impact;
- the
magnitude and complexity of the impact;
- the
probability of the impact;
- the
duration, frequency and reversibility of the impact.
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