The Planning Series: 16 – Habitats Regulations Assessment

Published 17/08/2022   |   Reading Time minutes

This quick guide provides an overview of Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA). HRA was introduced to afford strict protection to sites designated as EU Natura 2000 sites and, following the UK’s exit from the European Union, continues to apply to such sites which now fall under UK protected designation.

The assessment aims to maintain the integrity of the species and habitats for which these sites were designated. This guide outlines what an HRA is, when it is required, what is involved during the stages of an HRA and how a decision can be challenged.

Article by Rhiannon Hardiman, Senedd Research, Welsh Parliament