Do I Need a Transport Statement? A Simple Guide for Developers
If you're preparing a planning application, one of the first questions you may be asked is whether you need a Transport Statement.
For many developers, architects and landowners, this can be confusing. What exactly is a Transport Statement? When is one required? And how is it different from a Transport Assessment?
This guide explains the purpose of a Transport Statement, when one may be needed and how it can help support a successful planning application.
What is a Transport Statement?
A Transport Statement is a concise technical report submitted as part of a planning application.
Its purpose is to demonstrate that the transport impacts of a proposed development have been properly considered and that the local highway network can safely accommodate the additional vehicle, pedestrian and cycle movements generated by the proposal.
A well-prepared Transport Statement provides planning officers and the Local Highway Authority with the information they need to assess whether the development is acceptable from a transport perspective.
When is a Transport Statement required?
There is no national rule which states exactly when a Transport Statement is required.
Instead, the decision is normally made by the Local Planning Authority in consultation with the Local Highway Authority.
A Transport Statement is generally requested where a development is expected to generate a modest increase in travel demand but not enough to justify a full Transport Assessment.
Typical developments may include:
Residential developments
Retail units
Drive-thru restaurants
Industrial developments
Healthcare facilities
Educational buildings
Changes of use
Mixed-use developments
Every planning application is different, so it is always advisable to discuss transport requirements before submitting an application.
What information does a Transport Statement include?
Although every report is tailored to the individual site, a Transport Statement will normally include:
A description of the proposed development
This explains what is being built or how an existing building is proposed to change.
Existing site conditions
The report describes the surrounding highway network, existing access arrangements, nearby junctions, pedestrian facilities, cycle routes and public transport services.
Accessibility
An assessment is made of how people can reach the site by walking, cycling, public transport and private car.
Traffic generation
Where appropriate, the likely number of vehicle trips generated by the development is estimated. This may involve using nationally recognised databases or traffic survey information.
Parking
The report considers whether sufficient parking is provided and whether vehicles can safely enter, manoeuvre within and leave the site.
Highway safety
Any existing highway safety issues are reviewed together with visibility splays, access arrangements and potential conflicts between different road users.
Conclusions
Finally, the report explains why the development is considered acceptable from a transport perspective and identifies any mitigation measures where appropriate.
Transport Statement or Transport Assessment?
This is one of the most common questions we are asked.
A Transport Statement is normally appropriate where the transport impacts of a development are expected to be relatively limited.
A Transport Assessment is a more comprehensive document and is generally required for larger developments where the transport impacts are likely to be more significant.
The Local Planning Authority will normally advise which level of assessment is appropriate.
Will a Transport Statement guarantee planning permission?
No.
A Transport Statement is only one part of the planning process.
Planning decisions also consider matters such as design, ecology, drainage, flood risk, landscape, heritage and planning policy.
However, a clear and well-prepared Transport Statement can help identify and resolve highway issues at an early stage, reducing delays during the planning process.
How long does it take to prepare a Transport Statement?
The timescale depends on the size and complexity of the development.
A straightforward change of use may only require a relatively short assessment, whereas larger or more complex developments may require traffic surveys, parking surveys or additional technical analysis.
Discussing your proposals with a transport planning consultant at an early stage can help identify the information likely to be required.
How much does a Transport Statement cost?
The cost varies depending on the size and complexity of the development, the availability of existing information and whether additional surveys are required.
Simple developments may only require a relatively concise report, whilst larger or more complex schemes requiring traffic surveys or junction assessments will naturally involve a greater level of work.
At DW Transportation, we provide fixed-fee quotations wherever possible so that clients understand the likely costs before work begins.
How DW Transportation can help
DW Transportation provides independent transport planning advice to developers, architects, planning consultants and landowners throughout South Wales and across the UK.
We regularly prepare Transport Statements for a wide range of developments, including residential, commercial, retail, educational and healthcare schemes.
Our aim is to provide practical, proportionate advice that helps clients navigate the planning process with confidence.
Need advice?
If you're unsure whether your development requires a Transport Statement, we'd be happy to have an informal discussion.
Early advice can often identify potential highway issues before a planning application is submitted, helping to reduce delays and avoid unnecessary costs.
Contact DW Transportation today to discuss your project.
About the Author
Dean Watkins is Director of DW Transportation, an independent transport planning consultancy based in South Wales. With more than 25 years' experience in transport planning, Dean advises developers, architects and planning consultants on Transport Statements, Transport Assessments, highway design, Section 278 Agreements and other transport planning matters across South Wales and the UK.