Integrating cumulative effects assessment into UK strategic planning: implications of the European Union SEA Directive

Abstract

This paper considers several options for addressing cumulative effects in strategic planning, one of which is through strategic environmental assessment (SEA). The adoption of the EU Directive on the assessment of effects of certain plans and programmes on the environment and its future incorporation into UK law by 2004 will have implications for the consideration of cumulative effects in strategic planning. An interview survey of 28 government regulators, experts, practitioners and planners revealed current understanding of cumulative effects, what cumulative effects issues could be addressed at the various planning levels and how they may be addressed through SEA. The findings helped inform the development of a framework for integrating cumulative effects assessment into the SEA and plan-making process. The proposed framework identifies key steps and activities in the SEA process to address cumulative effects.

Keywords:

• cumulative effects assessment
• strategic planning
• strategic environmental assessment
• sustainability appraisal
• SEA Directive