Infrastructure Strategy: strategic environmental assessment

2. SEA Explained

2.1. Introduction

2.1.1. This report has been prepared in accordance with the European Directive 2001/42/EC and section 5(4) of the 2005 Act.

2.1.2. The 2005 Act requires certain plans and programmes to undergo SEA where they are likely to have significant environmental effects. This provides a systematic process for identifying, reporting, and mitigating the environmental impacts of an emerging plan or strategy.

2.1.3. Beyond meeting legislative requirements, SEA provides a structured approach to integrating environmental considerations into decision-making. It helps identify potential significant effects at an early stage, supports the development of reasonable alternatives, and promotes transparency through public and stakeholder engagement. SEA also ensures that environmental protection objectives are considered alongside social and economic factors, contributing to more sustainable and informed planning outcomes.

2.2. Key Stages of the SEA Process

2.2.1. This SEA follows the process required by the 2005 Act. There is also guidance published the Scottish Government on undertaking SEA, which sets out a seven-stage process for undertaking SEA. This process, in conjunction with the 2005 Act, guides this assessment.

2.2.2. The stages and outputs for the SEA are set out in Figure 2‑1. The Environmental Report and its consultation comprise Stages 4 and Stage 5, respectively.

Stage 1

• Pre-screening
• A process of self-exemption undertaken by the Responsible Authority, if appropriate

Screening and Scoping Report

Stage 2

• Screening
• Responsible Authority seeks the views of the Consultation Authorities on whether a plan is likely to have significant environmental effects and therefore whether a SEA is required

Stage 3

• Scoping
• Establish the content and baseline for the SEA
• Identify key sustainability issues for the Infrastructure Strategy
• Develop the SEA Framework

Stage 4

• Environmental Assessment
• Develop and refine alternatives for elements of the Infrastructure Strategy
• Appraise the significant effects of these alternatives
• Appraise the draft Infrastructure Strategy

Environmental Report

Stage 5

• Main Consultation
• Consult on the draft Infrastructure Strategy and the SEA Environmental Report

Post Adoption Statement

Stage 6

• Post Adoption SEA statement
• Prepare the Post Adoption Statement

Stage 7

• Monitoring
• Monitor the significant effects of the Infrastructure Strategy