Item8Appendix2HRA20190215DET

This document contains a draft Habitats Regulations Assessment consultation, dated 27 January 2020, regarding planning applications for the demolition of a house and the erection of 12 houses in Boat of Garten. The assessment, conducted under regulation 48 of the Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994, examines the potential impact of the development on nearby Natura sites, including the River Spey Special Area of Conservation (SAC), Abernethy Forest Special Protection Area (SPA), Cairngorms SPA, Anagach Woods SPA, Craigmore Wood SPA and Kinveachy Forest SPA. The assessment identifies likely significant effects on the River Spey SAC, particularly concerning the potential for increased nutrients from sewage impacting freshwater pearl mussels and otters, but concludes that with mitigation measures, the proposed development will not adversely affect the integrity of the River Spey SAC. The document outlines stages of assessment, identifies Natura sites and qualifying features, and summarizes mitigation measures including a suspensive condition for foul water treatment and a full groundwater investigation.