Designated Sites
What is a designated area?
A designated area can be one or more of the following:
- an Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI)
- a Special protection Area (SPA)
- a Special Area of Conservation (SAC)
- RAMSAR site or nature reserve.
What is the difference between the various types of designation ASSI, SAC, SPA, Ramsar etc?
ASSIs and nature reserves are designated under local legislation. SPAs, SACs, and Ramsar sites are designated under European legislation and are afforded more protection under law in this respect. ASSIs and SAC protect various types of habitat whereas SPAs and Ramsar sites protect birds and their habitats. See designated sites.
What is a notifiable operation?
A notifiable operation is an activity that would be considered by us to be potentially damaging to a habitat or habitats within a designated site. As each ASSI is unique it would be impossible to list every activity that may cause damage, as this is often dependent on scale, timing or duration of a particular activity. Owners of a designated site are supplied with a list of notifiable operations specific to their site. These landowners must apply to us before undertaking any of these works.
What if I want to carry out work (a notifiable operation) on a designated site, what should I do?
You must apply to us before undertaking any work, that is listed in your declaration documents as a notifiable operation, on a designated site.
If you require an application form for consent to carry out works tel: 028 9056 9538 or 028 9056 9539. Applications cannot be made electronically as they must bear the applicant's signature for legal reasons.
