Habitats Regulations Appraisal (HRA) of Plans and Projects (Scotland)

This training is led by Sue Bell. The course is designed specifically for anyone working in Scotland, but will also have relevance to those working in other parts of the UK. Whilst designed primarily for those new to or with limited experience of Habitats Regulations Appraisal, experienced practitioners may also benefit from a refresher of their understanding of key terms and concepts.

The course will provide a thorough understanding of the overall purpose, process and methodology of Habitats Regulations Appraisal, including Appropriate Assessment and the roles of different organisations and individuals in the process. It will cover the application of HRA to both projects and plans (e.g. Local Development Plans) and is suitable for those charged with conducting HRA or providing information to enable a HRA to be carried out as well as those who may need to review an HRA prepared by others. The training will follow the approach set out in NatureScot’s guidance on HRA. It will cover the legislative basis for HRA, and the stages in the assessment process. It will introduce participants to key terms and concepts and provide guidance on the different stages in the process, including how to decide whether an HRA is required, how to identify European sites that might be affected, and how to identify those aspects of a project or plan that require appropriate assessment. It will also include professional tips and hints on compliance and best practice.

The course will be taught via group discussions, exercises and presentations and will draw on published guidance and case law. Usually a member of NatureScot staff also attends the course and provides guidance on NatureScot’s role and how the information they hold can be used within the HRA process.

• Habitats Regulations Appraisal and Appropriate Assessment and how these differ from Environmental Impact Assessment.
• Understand the legislative basis and relative organisational roles and responsibilities in relation to HRA/AA,
• Be able to identify elements of a project or plan that could have likely significant effects and the consequences of this.
• Understand the different stages in HRA, including deciding if HRA is required, collecting information for assessments, identifying elements of the project or plan that have likely significant effects, application of mitigation, and appropriate assessment.
• Understand the key concepts and terminology used in HRA and AA and how these may differ from other contexts (e.g. qualifying interests; likely significant effect; effect on integrity, mitigation; compensation).
• Understand the need for and distinction between mitigation and compensation measures.
• Understand the level of certainty required in conclusions and the level of “test” for the outcome of the assessment.
• Be able to undertake an HRA and AA.