We provide early highways risk reviews to identify access, safety and network risks that could affect the deliverability of a site or proposal. Our reviews focus on realistic constraints, authority expectations and likely points of challenge, helping clients understand where highways issues may influence planning outcomes.
Early highways risk reviews provide clarity at a stage where decisions can still be shaped, reducing uncertainty and avoiding avoidable redesign or delay.
What is an early highways risk review?
An early highways risk review is a focused assessment of the potential highways and transport issues associated with a site or development proposal. It considers access feasibility, highway safety, network sensitivity and policy context to identify where risks may arise.
This work is typically undertaken at feasibility, pre-purchase or pre-application stage, providing an informed view of risk before committing to detailed design, surveys or assessment work.
Our early highways risk reviews are tailored to the site and proposal and typically include:
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Review of site location and highway context
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Initial assessment of access feasibility and constraints
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Identification of highway safety considerations
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Review of nearby junctions and network sensitivity
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Consideration of policy and authority expectations
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Identification of likely areas of scrutiny or objection
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High-level view on mitigation requirements
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Clear written summary of risks, opportunities and next steps
The value of early highways risk reviews lies in providing an honest, experience-led view of where transport and highways issues could influence planning success. By identifying risks early, we help clients distinguish between issues that are manageable through design and mitigation and those that may fundamentally affect deliverability. This clarity supports better land decisions, more robust planning strategies and proportionate investment in further work. It also allows discussions with highway authorities to be focused on genuine issues rather than surprises emerging late in the process.
When early highways risk reviews are needed
Early highways risk reviews are commonly undertaken:
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At feasibility or pre-purchase stage
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During strategic land or site promotion
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Prior to pre-application engagement
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When assessing constrained or sensitive sites
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Where highway authority scrutiny is anticipated
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Before committing to surveys or detailed design
They are particularly valuable where highways considerations may influence viability or programme.
Our approach
We take a clear, judgement-led approach to early highways risk reviews:
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Review the site and surrounding highway network
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Identify realistic access and safety constraints
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Consider authority expectations and policy context
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Assess the likelihood and severity of potential risks
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Provide clear advice on mitigation, strategy and next steps
Our focus is on clarity, realism and supporting informed decision making.
Who we support
We provide early highways risk reviews for:
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Residential developments
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Strategic land and site promotion
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Commercial and employment uses
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Retail and leisure schemes
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Energy and infrastructure projects
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Rural and edge-of-settlement sites
Our experience across England, Scotland and Wales provides insight into how different authorities assess risk and apply highway design standards and transport policies.
Need an early view on highways risk for your site?
Get in touch and we will provide clear, honest advice to inform your next steps.
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