Beta Design Consultants support clients and developers in the Transport Assessment of major developments as transportation is a critical aspect of any major development project, whether it is the construction of a new residential complex, a commercial development, or an industrial facility.
Beta Design Consultants get involved at the planning stages to ensure the efficient movement of people and goods which is essential for the success of these projects, and that's where transport assessment plays a vital role.
A successful transport assessment contributes to creating sustainable and well-connected communities and our consulting engineers prepare Transport Assessments that involve a comprehensive evaluation of the transport implications of the proposed development. We consider all contributing factors such as:
- existing transport infrastructure
- traffic flow based on data and evidence
- accessibility
- public transportation and existing PTAL rating
- existing and proposed parking facilities within the regulatory/planning policies
- the potential impact on the local community and the environment
At the construction stage, our consultants would also support in the preparation of traffic management plans or travel management plans.
Our transport assessment aims to identify potential challenges (e.g. limitations of existing infrastructure, challenges during construction, barriers created by planning, opportunities incentivized by legislation) then propose mitigating measures (diversify modes of transport, respond to various potential needs, propose improvements to existing infrastructure, opportunities for green modes of transport), and ensure that the development aligns with transportation goals and policies.
Assessing Traffic Impact:
One of the primary focuses of our transport assessment is to evaluate the potential traffic impact of a major development. This involves analysing the current traffic patterns, estimating the additional trips generated by the project, and assessing the capacity of the existing road network to accommodate the increased traffic. Traffic modelling techniques and simulation tools are commonly used to predict the flow of vehicles and identify potential congestion hotspots. The assessment helps in designing appropriate road infrastructure upgrades or alternative transportation solutions to alleviate any adverse effects on traffic flow. This is exactly what our transport assessment for Wycombe Film Production development did. Our assessment identified a potential impact on a section of the existing road network as well as a potential impact on a junction following the commencement of construction activities and including the future operation of the development. Our impact assessment resulted in recommendations to widen a section of an existing road leading to the development and to modify the impacted junction.
Promoting Sustainable Transportation:
Transport assessment conducted by Beta Design Consultants play a vital role in promoting sustainable transportation options within major developments. Our consultants encourage the integration of pedestrian-friendly designs, cycling infrastructure, efficient public transportation systems and allow for existing and future need for electric charging vehicles, bikes and scooters. By prioritizing sustainable transportation modes, such as walking, cycling, and the use of public transit, the assessment helps reduce the dependence on private vehicles, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and improve air quality. It also ensures that accessibility for individuals with disabilities is adequately addressed. In a recent proposal to review parking provisions for an existing residential development in Richmond, London, our proposed solution was to provide parking that complies with the London Plan Transport Policy T6.0 and T6.1 which resulted in providing parking at the lower limit allowed, providing disabled parking and providing EV charging infrastructure, with due regards to number of units, PTAL rating and existing parking provisions.
Enhancing Connectivity:
Connectivity is a key factor in the success of major developments. Our transport assessment evaluates the existing transport network and identifies opportunities to enhance connectivity both within the development and with the surrounding areas. This may involve designing new road connections, improving public transit services, creating pedestrian and cycling pathways, or integrating smart mobility solutions. A well-connected development improves accessibility, reduces travel times, and enhances the overall quality of life for residents, workers, and visitors. This is particularly important in brownfield development as the conversion of an exiting office (for example) to residential would create different needs and different connectivity requirements that our consultants identify and design solutions for.
Managing Parking and Transport Demand:
Our transport assessment helps determine the parking and transport demand generated by a major development. By analysing the projected demand, the assessment assists in designing adequate parking facilities, including on-site parking lots or structured parking garages. It also assesses the need for transportation management strategies, such as carpooling programs, shuttle services, or demand-responsive transportation, to optimize the utilization of available transportation resources and reduce traffic congestion. This is the case of our traffic assessment for Wycombe Film Production development, where our detailed design followed on from the findings of the assessment by designing the parking provisions during construction as well as the multi-storey car park during operation.
Considering Environmental and Social Impacts:
Major developments can have significant environmental and social impacts on the surrounding areas. Our transport assessments evaluate the potential effects on the local environment, including noise pollution, air quality, impact on greening/landscaping, and carbon emissions. It also considers the social implications, such as the impact on communities, accessibility for vulnerable populations, and the overall live-ability of the area. The assessment would then recommend measures to mitigate adverse effects, enhance sustainability, and ensure a harmonious integration of the development with its surroundings. It is quite common to integrate proposals for transport within the overall landscaping design increasing greening opportunities, preserving and enhancing landscaping.
Get in touch with our consultants to find out how our transport assessment can play a vital role in your major development by analysing the transportation implications and guiding the planning and design process. Our consultants would ensures that the development is well-connected, sustainable, and considerate of the needs of the local community. By addressing traffic impact, promoting sustainable transportation options, enhancing connectivity, managing parking and transport demand, and considering environmental and social impacts, our transport assessment would contribute to the creation of thriving and resilient communities for the future.