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WHAT ARE TRAVEL PLANS & TRANSPORT STATEMENTS?

Transport statements

Transport statements evaluate the transport impacts of a proposed development. They include assessment of the site’s transport constraints and opportunities, such as the availability of walking routes and bus services. They also include description and evaluation of the transport movements and modes that are likely to be associated with users or occupiers of a new development. 

For example, are occupants of a new housing estate able and likely to use pavements, bicycles and buses to access local services or are they reliant on private cars?

Travel plans

Travel plans provide long-term measures and strategies to promote sustainable travel (mainly public transport, walking and cycling). The primary goal of a travel plan is to mitigate or reduce the negative transport impacts of a new development. That normally means trying to limit reliance on private cars. For larger developments, this might include the introduction of a car sharing club for residents or a minibus service for employees. Travel plans are normally subject to monitoring and regular review. 

Transport assessments

Transport assessments are a more detailed form of transport statement. They are only required for developments likely to have very significant transport impacts – we can advise you if that is the case for your project. Planning Direct does not currently provide transport assessments but we are able to commission them should you need one. You can find out more about our commissions using the button below.

The government has also issued detailed guidance on travel plans & transport statements. Follow the link below to have a read.

WHEN IS A TRANSPORT STATEMENT REQUIRED?

Transport statements or transport assessments are required for “all developments that generate significant amounts of transport movements”. 

However, it’s for your local council to decide what a “significant amount of transport movement” is. They will take account of existing transport issues or constraints in the local area such as existing levels of traffic, substandard roads and obstructive, on-road parking. This means that what might be considered a significant amount of transport movements for one site or area could be very different elsewhere.

Whether a straightforward transport statement or more detailed transport assessment is required will depend on how significant the transport movements (and their impacts) are. Again, this will be for your local council to decide. 

WHEN IS A TRAVEL PLAN REQUIRED?

Travel plans are required for “all developments that generate significant amounts of transport movements”.

However, it’s for your local council to decide what a “significant amount of transport movement” is. They will take account of existing transport issues or constraints in the local area such as existing levels of traffic, substandard roads and obstructive, on-road parking. This means that what might be considered a significant amount of transport movements for one site or area could be very different elsewhere.

HOW CAN PLANNING DIRECT ASSIST WITH YOUR TRANSPORT ISSUES?

Planning Direct provides transport statements and travel plans for most types of development. If you need a more detailed transport assessment, we can commission this on your behalf.

If you’ve instructed Planning Direct to submit a planning application or planning appeal, then we’ll normally address travel and transport issues in the written statement. The only exception is where these matters are irrelevant, which is normally the case for minor developments like domestic extensions. Additional report/s – including a travel plan or transport assessment – will only be required in certain cases. We’ll always advise you of your options so you can make an informed decision about how you spend your money.

Find out more about submitting a planning application or planning appeal with Planning Direct using the buttons below.

If you require assistance with travel plans & transport statements, then please contact us today.