The Government is undertaking a review of the implementation of the EU Habitats and Wild Birds Directives in England.

Call for views

We want your views and evidence of problems or successes in implementation, early during February 2012. How to respond…

Purpose of Review

To review the Habitats and Wild Birds Directives, as currently implemented in England, focussing on obligations affecting authorisations for developments, with a view to reducing burdens on business while maintaining the integrity of the purpose of the Directives.

• Terms of Reference

“We strongly support the aims of these Directives. We want them to continue to be effective in protecting these very important wildlife sites and species.” (Caroline Spelman, 29 November 2011)

Working with others

We have set up a High Level Advisory Group (minutes of meetings are published) and held a Stakeholder Workshop (the presentation is published).

Timetable

The Review was announced by the Chancellor on 29 November 2011 in his Autumn Statement. It will be concluded by the Budget (March 2012).

• Examination into how well the Habitats and Birds Directives are being implemented in England (news release, 29 November 2011)