What is a screening opinion?

Prospective applicants can apply to the county council prior to submitting any application for planning permission, for a determination of whether or not a development should be subject to an environmental impact assessment. This is called a screening opinion.

The county council will then provide an opinion to the developer as to whether the application should be accompanied by an environmental statement.

Any such request by the developer should be made in writing and be accompanied by:

• a plan sufficient to identify the land.
• a brief description of the nature and purpose of the development and of possible effects upon the environment.
• any information or representation from the developer.

The applicant has the right of appeal to the Deputy Prime Minister to determine whether an environmental statement is required.

Applicants make seek advice upon the content of the environmental statement by requesting a scoping opinion.