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Policy T8: Transport Assessments

Development proposals that would prejudice the primary function of any part of the highway network (i.e. the motorway, trunk road, primary and local highway network) by generating a material increase in traffic, which would overload the access to, or any part of the network, will not be permitted, unless the necessary mitigation measures required are undertaken.

Planning applications for the following forms of development will be required to be accompanied by a Transport Assessment:

a) Major traffic generating development proposals as defined in table 8.1;

b) Proposals which, either by themselves or in conjunction with wider proposals of which the development forms a part, are likely to cause significant harm as a result of existing road capacity or safety problems in the area;

c) Proposals which are likely to significantly increase pollution and/or noise as a result of traffic generation; or cause pollution levels in Air Quality Management areas to exceed guideline levels;

d) Proposals that would generate a material increase in traffic entering or using any motorways, trunk roads or other primary routes; and

e) Proposals that would impact on the bus network.

Explanation T8

8.38

Large-scale developments can have significant transport implications. The submission of transport assessments with planning applications enables these implications to be fully assessed. The aim is to manage travel demand so as to limit the effects of traffic generation on the environment (e.g. through noise or air pollution), and to provide for safe and easy access for all users to the site by all modes of travel. Not all proposals will require a full Transport Assessment. However, the Council will seek to ensure that adequate information is submitted with each planning application to ensure that the implications of the development for the transport network are adequately assessed.

8.39

The Highways Agency has responsibility for the maintenance of the motorway, trunk roads and other primary routes on behalf of the Secretary of State. In regard to motorways, the Secretary of State has a strict policy of not allowing direct access to motorways other than for motorway service stations, or motorway maintenance compounds. The Agency if necessary can direct the Council to refuse planning applications for developments whose access arrangements breach this policy.

8.40

A Transport Assessment is required to identify whether or not a proposal is feasible in traffic terms, and to ascertain the necessity and scope for acceptable highway improvement works or other mitigation measures. Works may be required to protect the safety and efficiency of the trunk and local road networks. Any development must be satisfactorily integrated into and coordinated with the highway network.

Policy Links
Policy ENV1	“Control of Pollution in New Development”
Policy T6	“Ensuring Choice of Travel to serve new Development”
Policy T9	“Travel Plans”