The Importance of a Transport Assessment in a Development
Discover why a transport assessment is crucial for big developments and how Encon Associates ensures a smooth, compliant planning process in the UK.
How Encon Associates Can Guide You Through the Process
When starting a new development project, developers must consider how the proposals can impact the local transport infrastructure. Whether it’s residential, commercial, rural or industrial, understanding the implications of the traffic, access, and transport flow is key to achieving planning approval from the local authority!
With over a decade of expertise in providing transport consultancy across the UK, here at Encon Associates, we are experts in all matters of Traffic and Transportation, providing a smooth process for our clients.
What Is a Transport Assessment and Why Is It Necessary?
A transport assessment is a detailed analysis that evaluates the impact of a new development on the surrounding transport network. It considers various factors such as traffic volume, access points, public transport availability, pedestrian routes, and parking provisions. The local authority often requires a Transport Assessment to ensure that new developments do not negatively impact traffic flow or road safety surrounding the site.
Why does your project need a Transport Assessment?
- Meeting Planning Requirements: Local planning authorities in the UK can require a Transport Assessment as part of the planning application process. This document provides a clear analysis of how the development will impact the local transport infrastructure.
- Addressing Traffic and Access Issues: A Transport Assessment highlights potential traffic challenges early in the project stage. This allows developers to proactively plan for solutions to mitigate potential negative impacts, which could involve: Secure cycle parking, improved access points or alternative routes.
- Supporting Sustainable Development: With the UK’s focus on reducing carbon emissions, a Transport Assessment demonstrates that your development is designed with sustainability in mind. It allows you to show how the project encourages the use of public transport, cycling, and walking.
Guidance Through the Transport Assessment Process
- Initial Consultation and Scoping:
We work closely with you to understand your project and its specific needs. We also liaise with local planning authorities to ensure that the Transport Assessment is tailored to their requirements, saving time and avoiding potential pitfalls during the approval process.
- Comprehensive Data Collection and Analysis
Our team collects the transport data, from traffic counts and public transport availability to road safety records and vehicle movements. We use modelling techniques to simulate how the new development will impact the local transport network and provide insights into potential issues before they arise.
- Clear Reporting and Tailored Recommendations
We prepare detailed reports that include traffic flow analyses, trip generation estimates, and potential mitigation measures. Our reports are designed to meet the specific standards of each local authority, ensuring that the information provided is exactly what is needed to progress your planning application.
We don’t just identify possible problems; we offer practical solutions!
Our recommendations can also include:
- Improved junction designs
- Adjustments to access routes
- Suggestions for integrating sustainable transport options.
Beyond the Planning Stage
Our support doesn’t end with the submission of the transport assessment. Whether it’s addressing feedback from the planning authority or making adjustments based on evolving needs, our team remains on hand to ensure a smooth process from start to finish.
Conclusion
At Encon Associates, we’re proud to be a trusted partner to developers, architects, and planning consultants across the UK. Our experience, combined with a client-focused approach, ensures that every Transport Assessment we produce is thorough, compliant, and tailored to your project.