ABSTRACT
There are several references to the concept of ‘conservation objectives’ in the Habitats Directive. It appears explicitly under recitals 8 and 10 and under Article 6(3), but it is not clearly defined.
Recital 8: ‘Whereas it is appropriate, in each area designated, to implement the necessary measures having regard to the conservation objectives pursued’.
Recital 10: ‘Whereas an appropriate assessment must be made of any plan or programme likely to have a significant effect on the conservation objectives of a site which has been designated or is designated in future’.
Article 6(3): ‘Any plan or project not directly connected with or necessary to the management of the site but likely to have a significant effect thereon, either individually or in combination with other plans or projects, shall be subject to appropriate assessment of its implications for the site in view of the site’s conservation objectives’.
