Environmental impact assessments

Screening opinion

You can ask for our opinion on whether a development should be subject to environmental impact assessment. Screening criteria are set out in The Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 20117. It is based upon a proposed development's characteristics, location and potential impacts.

Please email us to request a screening opinion and include the following in your email:

  • a plan sufficient to identify the land
  • a brief description of the proposed development's nature, purpose and possible effects upon the environment
  • any information or representation from the developer.

Applicants also have the right to appeal to the secretary of state for a screening direction to determine whether an assessment is necessary.