Part 7: Nutrient Pollution Standards 96C Sensitive catchment areas
Subsection (1) allows the Secretary of State to designate a "nitrogen sensitive catchment area" in relation to a habitats site in England that is in an unfavourable condition due to nitrogen pollution.
	Subsection (2) allows the Secretary of State to designate a "phosphorus sensitive catchment area" in relation to a habitats site in England that is in an unfavourable condition due to phosphorus pollution.
	Subsection (3) specifies that when determining (a) whether a habitats site is in an unfavourable condition due to nutrient pollution, (b) the catchment area for a habitats site, or (c) whether to exercise the power to specify the nutrient pollution standard that applies to a plant instead of the standard concentration, the Secretary of State may take into account advice or guidance from, in particular, Natural England, the Environment Agency or the Joint Nature Conservation Committee.
	Subsection (4) sets out the process for making designations of nutrient sensitive catchment areas. Where a designation is made after the end of the initial period, the upgrade date must be specified (see section 96E). The designation may specify the concentration that applies to a plant in relation to a nutrient pollution standard instead of the standard concentration.
	Subsection (5) further requires that where a nutrient sensitive catchment area is designated after end of the initial period, the upgrade date must be at least 7 years after the designation date.
	Subsection (6) requires that before specifying a different nutrient pollution standard that applies to a plant, the Secretary of State must consult the Environment Agency.
	Subsection (7) sets out that a concentration specified under subsection (4)(e) ceases to have effect if the plant becomes exempt.
	Subsection (8) specifies that designation of a nutrient sensitive catchment area cannot be revoked. The designation will remain regardless of whether or not the associated habitats site continues to be in an unfavourable condition due to nutrient pollution.
	Subsection (9) defines the term "catchment area" as the area where water, if released, would drain into the habitats site.