Though this can simply be shown on a map, it is useful to have some written details of the location for quick reference. These details can include the local planning authority, a grid reference for the centre of the site and the distance to towns and cities.

In some situations, a plan can extend beyond the boundaries of the protected site in order to include an area large enough to maintain the ecological integrity/continuity of the habitats within the site. Such a plan may include buffer zones around the core site or internal zonation within it. In other situations, the plan may simply cover all or just part of the protected area or seek to establish connections with other protected areas nearby.