Where your proposed development will likely have a significant impact on the environment by virtue of its nature, size or location, an environmental impact assessment will need to accompany your planning application -
The information below provides further details about when an environmental impact assessment is required, what information this document should include, how to submit it to us and where further information can be found.
When is an environmental impact assessment required?
An environmental impact assessment should accompany planning applications for:
- developments that are likely to have a significant effect on the environment by virtue of their nature, size or location
- developments listed under Schedule 1 and Schedule 2 of The Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 1999
Applications for developments over 0.5ha in size may also require an environmental impact assessment to be undertaken. For further clarification, please contact the development control team before submitting your application.
What information should be included in an environmental impact assessment?
An environmental impact assessment should include the necessary information to meet the criteria outlined in Schedule 4 of the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 1999. This includes (but is not limited to):
- a description of the proposed development, its characteristics, land-use, emissions, etc
- an outline of the main alternatives studied – including the main reasons for the choice, taking into account the environmental effects
- a statement identifying the aspects of the environment likely to be significantly affected by the proposed development
- for example, the population, fauna, flora, soil, water, air and climatic factors, as well as the architectural and archaeological heritage
- a description of the likely significant effects of the proposed development on the environment – including the direct effects and any indirect effects
- a statement outlining the measures that will be taken to prevent, reduce and (where possible) offset any significant adverse effects on the environment
- an indication of any difficulties (technical deficiencies or lack of know-how) encountered in compiling the required information
How do I submit an environmental impact assessment?
If you apply for planning permission online using the Planning Portal, you will be given the opportunity to upload your environmental impact assessment. This is after you have completed the relevant application forms.
Before uploading any files, please read our guidance notes for submitting electronic files with planning applications (PDF).
If you choose to submit a paper-based application instead, you will need to provide:
- four copies of your environmental impact assessment
- four copies of the relevant application forms.
Where can I find out further information?
For further information on preparing and submitting an environmental impact assessment, please see the following link below: