Sustainability appraisal is a systematic and iterative process, incorporating the requirements of the Strategic Environmental Assessment Directive (footnote: European Union Directive 2001/42/EC). In carrying out the appraisal, local planning authorities should have regard to the specific objectives and principles of sustainable development as outlined in PPS 1. The potential direct, indirect and cumulative impacts of different policy options need to be identified and appraised in order to integrate sustainable development objectives in the formulation of policy and to inform decisions on which options should be promoted in local development documents.

Following SA Guidance and the advice on PPS 12, the relevant SA commentary on the likely significant effects of the options should be available at the same time as the options themselves, in an informal pre-submission consultation stage.

The Guidance suggests possible methods of public involvement and also recommends that the work should be published on the Local Authority’s website.

This report examines the likely significant sustainability effects of the options being considered for the Brimscombe Area Action Plan.