We prepare swept path drawings to clearly demonstrate how vehicles will access, manoeuvre within and exit a site. Our drawings provide visual confirmation that servicing, refuse, delivery and emergency vehicles can be accommodated safely.
Swept path drawings are routinely required by Local Highway Authorities and other consultees to support planning applications, access approvals and technical submissions.
What is swept path analysis?
Swept path drawings are plan-based outputs that show the path a vehicle takes as it moves through access points, junctions and internal layouts. They illustrate vehicle envelopes, overhangs and tracking lines, helping to confirm that proposed layouts can function safely in practice.
These drawings are typically prepared using industry-standard vehicle tracking software and form a key part of access and highway design evidence.
Our swept path drawings are tailored to the site and vehicle requirements and typically include:
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Selection of appropriate design vehicles
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Swept path analysis at site access points
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Tracking assessment of vehicle movements within internal layouts
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Turning and manoeuvring within service yards, parking areas and courtyards
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Assessment of refuse, delivery and emergency access
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Iterative testing of access and layout refinements
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Identification of potential conflicts or overrun
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Clear, annotated swept path drawings suitable for submission
The value of clear swept path drawings lies in providing visual, easily understood evidence that layouts work in practice. By demonstrating vehicle movements clearly, we help clients avoid reliance on written explanation alone and reduce the risk of challenge from highway authorities. Robust drawings provide confidence that access and servicing arrangements are realistic, support smoother approvals and reduce the likelihood of late-stage redesign or operational issues once a site is built.
When swept path drawings are needed
Swept path drawings are commonly required:
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To support planning applications
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For new or altered site access
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Where servicing or refuse access is critical
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For constrained or tight layouts
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To support dropped kerb or crossover approvals
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As part of Section 278 design submissions
They are particularly important where large vehicles interact with public highways or sensitive internal areas.
Our approach
We take a clear, practical approach to swept path drawings:
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Understand the layout and access strategy
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Agree appropriate design vehicles
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Undertake proportionate vehicle tracking
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Test and refine layouts where required
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Prepare clear, submission-ready drawings
Our focus is on clarity, realism and supporting efficient decision making.
Who we support
We prepare swept path drawings for:
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Residential developments
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Commercial and employment sites
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Retail and leisure schemes
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Education and healthcare facilities
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Energy and infrastructure projects
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Constrained urban and rural sites
Our experience across England, Scotland and Wales ensures drawings align with authority expectations and standards.
Need swept path drawings to support your planning submission?
Get in touch and we will prepare clear, defensible swept path drawings for your site.
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