Sites of community importance
Contents |
[edit] Overview
A site becomes a site of community importance when it has been submitted and adopted by the European Commission as a special area of conservation (SAC), but not yet designated by the government of the member state.
[edit] Background
A site of community importance supports natural habitats and species of community interest that are listed in the Annexes of the Habitats Directive. The habitats and species are vulnerable, rare and endangered.
The sites are part of the European network and therefore the provisions of the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 (the “Habitats Regulations”) apply to them. Article 4.4 of the Habitats Regulations states:
“Member States shall designate sites of Community importance as a special area of conservation as soon as possible and within six years at most, establishing priorities in the light of the importance of the sites for the maintenance or restoration, at a favourable conservation status, of a natural habitat type in Annex I or a species in Annex II and for the coherence of Natura 2000, and in the light of the threats of degradation or destruction to which those sites are exposed”.
Within six years of a site being identified as a site of community importance, it should be should designated as special area of conservation with a priority being given to the more important sites, or those facing threats.
[edit] UK sites of community importance summary
In 2014, there were a total of 33 sites of community importance within the UK, with the break down as follows:
- England: 10.
- England/Offshore: 2.
- Northern Ireland: 3.
- Scotland: 1.
- Scotland/Offshore: 2.
- UK Offshore Waters: 15.
Further information on the sites of community importance in the UK is available from the Joint Nature Conservation Committee website.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki.
- Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
- Designated sites.
- Forests.
- National nature reserves.
- National parks.
- Natura 2000 network.
- Natural England.
- Protected species.
- Ramsar sites.
- Sites of Special Scientific Interest.
- Special Area of Conservation.
- Special Nature Conservation Order SNCO.
- Special Protection Areas.
[edit] External references
Featured articles and news
One of the most impressive Victorian architects. Book review.
RTPI leader to become new CIOB Chief Executive Officer
Dr Victoria Hills MRTPI, FICE to take over after Caroline Gumble’s departure.
Social and affordable housing, a long term plan for delivery
The “Delivering a Decade of Renewal for Social and Affordable Housing” strategy sets out future path.
A change to adoptive architecture
Effects of global weather warming on architectural detailing, material choice and human interaction.
The proposed publicly owned and backed subsidiary of Homes England, to facilitate new homes.
How big is the problem and what can we do to mitigate the effects?
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
A number of cool guides to help with the heat.
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.