Access appraisal

An access appraisal tests the principle of access before significant design and land costs are committed. We review the site and its surroundings, the policy and guidance context, and the likely requirements of the highway authority, to establish what is achievable and what mitigation may be needed.

The appraisal typically covers:

• Suitable access options, including their location and form
• Visibility and geometry to the relevant standards, informed by speed surveys where required
• The injury collision record and any highway safety concerns
• Walking, cycling and public transport connectivity
• An early view of likely trip generation and network impact
• Any off-site improvements that may be needed

The outcome is a clear, concise note that can be shared with the project team, landowners and the highway authority. It sets out an access strategy and a view on deliverability, so decisions on land acquisition, layout and quantum can be made with confidence.

Where the appraisal supports a positive position, it provides the foundation for pre-application engagement and the transport case for the application. The same team can then develop the preliminary access design into detailed design and Section 278 technical approval (link to Highway design and agreements).