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SEA and Environmental Impact Assessment

The relationship between Strategic Environmental Assessment and project level Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).

The relationship between Strategic Environmental Assessment and Environmental Impact Assessment is illustrated by the diagram linked below:

The diagram shows the hierarchical relationship between different tiers of assessment with higher levels of assessment informing subsequent ones. Although this is clearly a simplification of reality the vertical relationship between assessment stages is important in SEA. Good SEA should inform subsequent assessment tiers and to do this effectively it must take account of information needs and delivery mechanisms.

SEA will help with the preparation of and EIA but will not remove the need for it.

The diagram also summarises the legislative requirements for assessment at different stages of the process. There is no legal requirement for SEA of high level policies.

The Environment Agency has produced guidance for the appraisal of its policies.