STOP PRESS: A revised version of the National Planning Policy Framework was published on 17 August 2026. This content is being reviewed in light of the revised version. Requirement for appropriate assessment/habitats regulations assessment Together: • Part 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 • the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 (Habitats Regulations), SI 2017/1012 , in England and Wales and their respective seas up to 12 nautical miles from the coast, and • the Conservation of Offshore Marine Habitats and Species Regulations 2017, SI 2017/1013 (Offshore Regulations) which apply in UK waters more than 12 nautical miles from the coast transpose into English and Welsh law the provisions of Archived Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora (as it had effect immediately before IP completion day (11 pm on 31 December 2020)). For information on how Brexit has impacted the habitats regime, see Practice Note: Brexit—the implications for English and Welsh planning law and practice. Habitats Regulations, SI 2017/1012, reg 63, requires a competent authority,