This guidance is intended to assist and guide local and planning authorities in the application of Article 6(3) and 6(4) of the Habitats Directive2 as it relates to their roles, functions and responsibilities in undertaking Appropriate Assessment (AA) of plans and projects.
It explains the concepts, tests and steps involved in the assessment procedure, the provisions of which are the primary mechanism for ensuring the protection of Natura 2000 sites and their conservation objectives when considering whether to authorise or adopt a plan or project. Natura 2000 sites in Ireland are European sites, including Special Protection Areas (SPAs), and Special Areas of Conservation (SACs)