Transport Assessments
Demonstrating That Larger Developments Can Be Successfully Accommodated
Larger developments often require more detailed transport analysis to demonstrate that they can be safely and sustainably accommodated by the surrounding transport network.
A Transport Assessment provides that evidence. It examines how a development will affect the highway network, identifies any potential impacts and, where necessary, recommends practical measures to mitigate them.
At DW Transportation, we prepare clear, proportionate and evidence-based Transport Assessments that help developers, architects and planning consultants navigate the planning process. Every assessment is tailored to the individual site and the requirements of the Local Planning Authority, providing practical advice that supports planning applications and helps projects move forward.
What is a Transport Assessment?
A Transport Assessment is a comprehensive transport planning document submitted in support of a planning application.
Its purpose is to evaluate the transport implications of a proposed development, demonstrating how people, vehicles and servicing traffic will access the site and assessing the impact on the surrounding highway network.
Unlike a Transport Statement, which is generally suitable for developments with relatively modest transport impacts, a Transport Assessment provides a more detailed analysis of existing conditions, future traffic, accessibility and highway capacity.
The table below compares the differences in complexities of a Transport Assessment compared with a Transport Statement.
Transport Statement v Transport Assessment
When is a Transport Assessment Required?
Transport Assessments are generally required for larger developments or proposals expected to generate significant levels of traffic.
They are commonly prepared for major residential developments, commercial schemes, industrial and logistics facilities, retail developments, mixed-use projects and other developments where the Local Planning Authority requires a detailed understanding of the transport implications.
Requirements vary between authorities and depend on factors such as the size, location and nature of the development. If you're unsure whether your project requires a Transport Statement or a Transport Assessment, we're happy to provide straightforward advice before any work is commissioned.
What Does a Transport Assessment Include?
Every Transport Assessment is tailored to the individual development, but typically considers existing traffic conditions, accessibility by sustainable modes, trip generation, traffic distribution, junction capacity, parking provision, servicing arrangements and road safety.
Where appropriate, assessments may also include traffic surveys, junction modelling, accident analysis, vehicle tracking, travel planning and mitigation proposals. Our focus is always on producing a clear, proportionate assessment that addresses the issues most likely to concern the Highway Authority.
Transport Assessment or Transport Statement?
One of the most common questions we receive is whether a Transport Assessment or a Transport Statement is required.
In simple terms, a Transport Statement is usually appropriate where the transport impacts of a development are expected to be relatively limited. A Transport Assessment is generally required where more detailed analysis is needed to understand the impact on the surrounding transport network and demonstrate that any effects can be appropriately managed.
The distinction isn't always clear, which is why early advice can often save both time and unnecessary expense.
Our Approach
A Transport Assessment should do far more than present traffic data.
Our role is to understand the development, identify potential transport issues at an early stage and provide practical solutions that support the planning process. We work closely with developers, architects and planning consultants to produce assessments that are technically robust, easy to understand and focused on the issues that matter most to decision-makers.
As an independent consultancy, you'll work directly with an experienced transport planner throughout your project, ensuring consistent advice and a responsive, personal service.
Experience Across a Wide Range of Developments
DW Transportation has prepared Transport Assessments for residential, commercial and mixed-use developments throughout Wales and England.
Our experience includes retail developments, petrol filling stations, commercial redevelopment, residential schemes, care facilities and a wide variety of other development types. Whatever the scale of the proposal, our objective remains the same: to provide practical transport advice that supports successful planning applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Transport Assessment cost?
Every project is different, so the cost depends on the size and complexity of the development, along with any survey or modelling requirements. We provide fixed-fee quotations following an initial discussion.
How long does it take?
Timescales vary depending on the complexity of the project and whether traffic surveys or junction modelling are required. We'll provide an estimated programme at the outset of every commission.
Will a Transport Assessment guarantee planning permission?
No consultant can guarantee planning permission. However, a well-prepared Transport Assessment provides the evidence needed for planning officers and Highway Authorities to understand the transport implications of a development and make informed decisions.
Can you prepare Transport Assessments throughout the UK?
Yes. We provide transport planning services for developments across Wales and England and are experienced in working with a wide range of Local Planning Authorities.
Related Services
Transport Assessments often form part of a wider package of transport planning services. Depending on your project, we may also prepare:
Transport Statements
Travel Plans
Swept Path Analysis
Parking Surveys & Assessments
Delivery & Servicing Plans
Construction Method Statements
Access Design
Need a Transport Assessment?
If you're preparing a planning application and require a Transport Assessment, we'd be pleased to discuss your project.
Whether you're at the early design stage or responding to advice from the Local Planning Authority, we can provide clear, practical transport planning advice tailored to your development.
Contact us today for an informal, no-obligation discussion about your project.
