Item6Appendix2HRA20220241DETSkyBar

This document contains a habitats regulations appraisal, dated 11 August 2023, for agenda item 6, appendix 2. It relates to planning reference 2022/0241/DET, which involves alterations and an extension to the Macdonald Aviemore Hotel. The appraisal, conducted by Karen Aldridge, Planning Ecological Advice Officer, and checked by Stephanie Wade on 28 July 2023, assesses the potential impact of the development on European sites, specifically Kinveachy Forest Special Protection Area (SPA) and River Spey Special Area of Conservation (SAC). The River Spey SAC is not considered due to a lack of direct ecological connection. The appraisal concludes that the proposed development will not have a significant effect on the Kinveachy Forest SPA, particularly regarding capercaillie and Scottish crossbills, and will not adversely affect the site's integrity. A capercaillie assessment in Annex 1 indicates no significant disturbance to capercaillie is expected, and no mitigation is required.