Can I Use an Existing Access for a New Development?
One of the most common assumptions made during the early stages of a development project is:
"The access already exists, so I won't need to worry about highways."
Unfortunately, it isn't always that simple.
Although an existing access may appear suitable, the Local Highway Authority will normally consider whether it is appropriate for the proposed use, not simply whether it already exists.
An access serving a single dwelling, field or former commercial premises may not be suitable for a larger residential or commercial development.
This guide explains how existing accesses are assessed and what developers should consider before submitting a planning application.
Highway Myth #1
"If the access already exists, the Highway Authority can't object to it."
Reality: Existing accesses are routinely assessed as part of the planning process. If the proposed development would significantly increase traffic or change the type of vehicles using the access, improvements may still be required.
Why does an existing access still need to be assessed?
Every planning application is considered on its own merits.
The Highway Authority will normally assess whether the existing access is suitable for the level and type of traffic generated by the proposed development.
Questions often include:
Can vehicles enter and leave safely?
Is visibility adequate?
Is the access wide enough?
Can larger vehicles use the access safely?
Are pedestrians adequately protected?
Would traffic levels increase significantly?
The fact that an access already exists does not automatically mean it is suitable for a new development.
What factors are considered?
The Highway Authority may assess:
Visibility splays.
Access width.
Radii.
Forward visibility.
Road speeds.
Traffic generation.
Junction spacing.
Pedestrian facilities.
Internal vehicle manoeuvring.
The assessment is proportionate to the size and nature of the proposed development.
When might improvements be required?
Even where an access already exists, improvements are sometimes necessary.
Examples include:
Widening the access.
Improving visibility.
Setting gates further back.
Providing footways.
Altering kerb radii.
Relocating utility equipment.
Constructing a new dropped kerb.
Where works affect the public highway, they may need to be delivered through a Section 278 or Section 184 agreement.
What if the access has been used for years?
Historic use is certainly relevant, but it is not the only consideration.
For example, an agricultural access may have served only occasional farm traffic.
The same access serving 30 new dwellings would experience a very different pattern of vehicle movements.
Similarly, a former commercial site may have operated under very different traffic conditions to those proposed as part of a redevelopment.
The Highway Authority will therefore assess the proposed use rather than relying solely on the site's historic use.
Can an existing access help a planning application?
Yes.
Reusing an existing access can often reduce the need for extensive highway works and minimise the impact on the surrounding road network.
Where the access already performs well and can safely accommodate the proposed development, retaining it may simplify the planning process.
However, this should always be supported by appropriate technical evidence where required.
Why early assessment matters
Access arrangements are one of the first issues considered by the Highway Authority.
Identifying potential constraints early allows the site layout to be refined before a planning application is submitted.
Simple design changes at the beginning of a project are often far easier than redesigning the scheme after highway objections have been raised.
How DW Transportation can help
DW Transportation advises developers, architects and planning consultants on site access design throughout South Wales and across the UK.
We assess existing accesses, advise on visibility, vehicle movements and highway standards, and provide practical recommendations where improvements may be required.
Our aim is to identify potential highway issues early and provide evidence-based advice that supports successful planning applications.
Need advice?
If you're planning to use an existing access for a new development, we'd be happy to help.
Early advice can identify whether improvements are likely to be required and ensure any highway issues are addressed before your planning application is submitted.
Contact DW Transportation today for an informal discussion about your project.
About the Author
Dean Watkins is Director of DW Transportation, an independent transport planning consultancy based in South Wales. With over 25 years' experience in transport planning, Dean advises developers, architects and planning consultants on Transport Statements, access design and highway matters associated with planning applications across South Wales and the UK.