A Transport Assessment is a comprehensive and systematic process that sets out various transport issues relating to a proposed development. It identifies what measures will be taken to deal with the anticipated transport impacts of the scheme in relation to all forms of travel.
National guidance recommends an iterative approach to the assessment where as a first step the improvement of accessibility and encouragement to use sustainable travel should take precedent over measures to increase traffic capacity and increased use of vehicles. Notwithstanding, the above safety and congestion are key issues which must be addressed in the assessment. For major development the Transport Assessment may be accompanied by a Travel Plan, which is a report containing a package of measures tailored to the transport needs of the development aimed at increasing travel choices and reducing reliance on the private car. Transport Assessments, and to a lesser extent Transport Statements, are required to identify the impact on the entire transport system in the vicinity of the development.
