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There is a procedure called a ‘scoping study’ designed to get agreement among all the statutory bodies on what factors need to be included in the appropriate assessment. There is probably no alternative for major projects, but it almost invariably results in a major scientific study which is time consuming and costly. Moreover, the science is rarely conclusive (see the section on scientific uncertainty)
The numerous bodies required to give consent and consultees (including NGOs) include even their slightest concerns. While this is inevitable for a gigantic project like Dibden, the process has resulted in the consent process for dredging a marina on the Solent taking 18 months to get consent for maintenance dredging works, and getting the consent cost more than the dredge itself. In theory, for simple projects, a meeting on site, the application of common sense, confirmed by an exchange of letters would be appropriate. Only rarely does this happen. The effect on small and medium sized businesses can be devastating. By calling for a large study, the conservation agencies can take a project that they do not like, or is a local political ‘hot potato’ into the long grass. It is a use of |
