Abstract
Appropriate assessment (“AA”) conclusion
This AA concludes that, based on the content of the following assessment, there will be no adverse effect on the site integrity of the Yell Sound Coast SAC, the Hermaness, Saxa Vord and Valla Field SPA, and the Bluemull and Colgrave Sounds pSPA from Nova Innovation Ltd’s proposal either in isolation or in combination with other plans or projects.
Introduction
This is a record of the AA of Nova Innovation Ltd.’s proposal to construct and operate the extended Shetland Tidal Array within Bluemull Sound, Shetland. The assessment has been undertaken by Marine Scotland - Licensing Operations Team (“MS-LOT”). This assessment is required under Regulation 48 of the Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994 (“the Regulations”). This AA is in accordance with Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora (“the Habitats Directive”) and Council Directive 2009/147/EC on the conservation of wild birds (“the Birds Directive”). MS-LOT, as the 'competent authority' under the Regulations, has to be satisfied that the project will not adversely affect the integrity of any European site (SACs, SPA and pSPA) before it can grant consent for the project.
A detailed AA has been undertaken and Scottish Natural Heritage (“SNH”) has been consulted.