England · National documents
Appropriate assessment
Explains assessment of effects on protected habitats sites, including screening, mitigation and the competent authority’s role.
AI-generated summaries of the linked official sources; not editorially reviewed. Sources and limits
Where this document applies
England: relevance depends on the proposal, site and planning process.
Appropriate assessment (official source, opens in a new tab) · Reference ID 65-001-20190722
Screen for effects on protected habitats
The screening stage considers likely significant effects from the proposal alone and in combination with other plans or projects. Where those effects cannot be excluded, the competent authority must undertake an appropriate assessment against the site’s conservation objectives.
Read the official source (official source, opens in a new tab) · Reference ID 65-001-20190722
Limits and checks
- This national source does not establish the local policies, designations or site facts that apply to an individual proposal.
- Some guidance predates the August 2026 Framework and may refer to earlier policy numbering. Read it with the current Framework and any applicable transition provisions.
Read alongside this document
Put the national source in your local context
Start with the exact refusal reason. Note the policy and paragraph it cites, then check your authority’s policy summary and the facts discussed in relevant appeal decisions. Each appeal turns on its own facts and does not predict another outcome.