Sites of Special Scientific interest (SSSIs) are designated by Natural England, Natural Resources Wales and Scottish Natural Heritage. In Northern Ireland, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs has similar responsibilities for Areas of Special Scientific Interest (ASSIs). An owner whose land is designated a SSSI is sent a notification and a list of potentially damaging operations that should not be undertaken without prior consultation with the relevant agency. Under the terms of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, payments may be made in some circumstances, for revenue forgone in SSSIs in the interests of nature conservation.

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