Habitats Directive Advice &
Appropriate Assessment

Two European Directives; the 1979 Wild Birds Directive and the 1992 Habitats Directive have resulted in the designation of a number of Special Protection Areas (SPAs) and Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) which are designed to protect species and habitats which are threatened in a European context. In the UK these designations are subject to national legislative protection under the 1994 Habitats Regulations. These Regulations have created an additional set of assessment procedures to which proposed plans and projects are subject.

EPR has considerable experience of the EU Habitats and Birds Directives, and the UK Habitats Regulations, and is recognised as a leading specialist in advising on the complex implications of these Regulations and how proposed developments are affected by them. We frequently work on Annex I habitats, often designated as Special Areas of Conservation; and on international bird sites such as Ramsar Sites and Special Protection Areas (SPAs). We have substantial experience of assessing and interpreting site condition, and the maintenance of Favourable Conservation Status.

We have specific expertise in preparing, or providing information for, Appropriate Assessments under the Habitats Regulations, for both developers and local authorities. Our experience and in-depth knowledge of the legal, procedural and technical aspects of the application of the Regulations ensures the provision of the highest quality advice and effective consultation with key parties such as Natural England and the Local Authority.

We have a long track record of writing and interpreting nature conservation policy, and unrivalled experience of nature conservation practice, including Management Plans for internationally important sites.

Link to Thames Basin Heaths
Thames Basin Heaths SPA

Link to Projects
Habitats Regulations Projects