The Sustainability Appraisal, Strategic Environmental Assessment (often called SA/SEA), and Habitat Regulations Assessment (HRA) are tests of the Local Development Plan (or Strategic Development Plan). They look at the effects of the plan on the environment, social, economic and cultural well-being, as well as the use of the Welsh language. The SA/SEA and HRA process runs alongside the Local Development Plan process, and you can comment on the SA/SEA and HRA themselves.

When wildlife could be harmed by development, local planning authorities should follow a step-wise approach to reduce that harm, known as the ‘mitigation hierarchy’. This is required in National Planning Policy.

Here are the different types of jellyfish commonly spotted in UK waters. Read our guide to find out what jellyfish you might have seen on local beaches near you.

Local authorities have powers to investigate and resolve possible planning breaches. A breach can be either when development is happening without planning permission, or if a development with planning permission is not following the conditions of the planning permission.

Local planning authorities can produce Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG) on any topic where they think more information is needed. This can include issues such as Biodiversity, Street Trees, or Landscaping but also the development of a particular area, such as an area masterplan.

During extended heatwaves and drought, the risk of wildfires increases. The impact on people and wildlife is devastating, and we all have a responsibility to do what we can to avoid them. Whether visiting the countryside, your local park, or a nature reserve, remember these top tips.

Applications for some large infrastructure projects are decided by Welsh Ministers instead of the local planning authority. These include energy projects, roads, railways and airports, dams and reservoirs and certain waste facilities, subject to various thresholds, and are called Developments of National Significance (DNS).

The Sustainability Appraisal, Strategic Environmental Assessment (often called SA/SEA), and Habitat Regulations Assessment (HRA) are tests of the Local Development Plan (or Strategic Development Plan). They look at the effects of the plan on the environment, social, economic and cultural well-being, as well as the use of the Welsh language.