The Government's Habitats and Wild Birds Directives Implementation Review found that the directives usually work well, but in some cases they do cause delays. The review has identified four areas to target.
Planning and aviation expert Jon Riley of Pinsent Masons, the law firm behind Out-Law.com, welcomed the news of the unit which he said will be invaluable in the Government's review of airport capacity.
“This is an important development for UK aviation: one of the first jobs for the in tray of the Major Infrastructure and Environment Unit will be to contribute to David Cameron’s promised list of pros and cons of a Thames Estuary airport in this summer’s aviation policy consultation,” said Riley.
The unit will aim to reduce the risk for promoters of major projects by identifying potential habitat issues early, the review said.
The unit will also aim to "improve interaction" between ‘top 40’ and other nationally significant infrastructure projects and the directives to reduce unnecessary delay and cost, while ensuring that environmental and economic objectives are fulfilled, the review said.
The Government first announced a review of the Habitats and Wild Birds Directives in the Autumn Statement. The review aimed to reduce the burdens on business while maintaining the integrity of the purpose of the Directives, the DEFRA said.
The Government has also identified three other areas to focus on, including improving the implementation processes and streamlining guidance; improving the quality, quantity and sharing of data, and improving the customer experience.
"The action we are taking will make it clearer for developers to understand how to comply with the directives and will ensure that our wildlife still receives the high level of protection it deserves. This in turn allows genuine green growth, boosting our economy while looking after the environment," said Caroline Spelman, Environment secretary.
