Transport assessment for building developments
The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) suggests that a transport assessment is: 'A comprehensive and systematic process that sets out transport issues relating to a proposed development. It identifies what measures will be required to improve accessibility and safety for all modes of travel, particularly for alternatives to the car such as walking, cycling and public transport and what measures will need to be taken to deal with the anticipated transport impacts of the development.'
A transport statement is: 'A simplified version of a transport assessment where it is agreed the transport issues arising out of development proposals are limited and a full transport assessment is not required.'
A transport assessment typically includes an assessment of accessibility, existing highway conditions, and existing and proposed traffic associated with the development site. Software such as ARCADY and PICADY is often used to assess the traffic impact at junctions.
NB The London Plan, published by the Mayor of London in March 2016, suggests that a transport assessment: ‘…is prepared and submitted alongside planning applications for developments likely to have significant transport implications. For major proposals, assessments should illustrate the following: accessibility to the site by all modes; the likely modal split of journeys to and from the site; and proposed measures to improve access by public transport, walking and cycling.’
Glasgow City Development Plan, published by Glasgow City Council in 2016, defines a transport assessment (TA) as: ‘A form of appraisal and forecasting of the various impacts of the vehicular traffic likely to be generated by a new development, with proposals to mitigate these effects, and to encourage walking, cycling and the use of public transport as alternatives.’
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Autonomous vehicles and the insurance market.
- Cycling and walking plan.
- Highways in England and Wales.
- Integrated transport system.
- National Planning Policy Framework.
- National Planning Practice Guidance.
- Planning permission.
- Road traffic management.
- Section 38 agreement.
- Section 278 agreement.
- The case for a new road-user charging scheme in London
- Traffic and transport.
- Traffic engineering.
- Transport design and health.
- Travel plan.
Featured articles and news
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.
CIOB Client Guide (2nd edition) March 2025
Free download covering statutory dutyholder roles under the Building Safety Act and much more.
Minister quizzed, as responsibility transfers to MHCLG and BSR publishes new building control guidance.
UK environmental regulations reform 2025
Amid wider new approaches to ensure regulators and regulation support growth.
BSRIA Statutory Compliance Inspection Checklist
BG80/2025 now significantly updated to include requirements related to important changes in legislation.