Transport scoping.
A clear transport scope before surveys, modelling and assessment are commissioned, with assumptions and responsibilities set out for the project team.
We establish the transport questions your proposal needs to answer and the evidence needed to address them. The scope can support an early site decision, an application programme or a discussion with the highway authority.
A practical brief for the next stage
The starting point is the proposed use, scale, access strategy and planning programme. We review existing information and previous highways comments, then identify the assessment tasks and consultation needed. The quotation records whether officer discussions, surveys and revisions are included.
- The appropriate evidence: appraisal, technical note, Transport Statement or Transport Assessment.
- Study area, travel modes and the questions to resolve.
- Survey locations, timing, existing data and its limitations.
- Trip generation, assessment years, scenarios and other development assumptions.
- Access, safety, servicing and construction topics requiring attention.
- Deliverables, exclusions, responsibilities and programme dependencies.
Agree the assumptions before commissioning evidence
We can prepare a scoping note and discuss the proposed approach with the highway authority as part of the agreed commission. Comments and unresolved items are recorded so the team can decide what to commission next. An officer discussion does not guarantee that no further information will be requested.
Coordinate transport scope and EIA
Where Environmental Impact Assessment is relevant, we work with the planning or EIA lead to align the transport assumptions and technical input. Formal EIA screening and scoping follow their own applicable procedures. Our separate EIA transport service covers screening input, ES scoping and the transport chapter.
What to send us
Send the location, boundary, latest layout or access options, proposed uses and scale, any previous reports or council comments, and your decision or submission date. We will identify the missing information and set out the proposed scope.
The decisions behind the scope.
Transport scoping: agree the questions before buying the surveys
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EIA Screening: explain the transport effects early
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ES Scoping: define the transport assessment before the chapter
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Related services: EIA transport input · Transport Assessments · Site feasibility.
Guidance and national scope
- GOV.UK: Travel Plans, Transport Assessments and StatementsEngland. National planning guidance on proportionate transport evidence.
- GOV.UK: Environmental Impact AssessmentEngland. Town and country planning EIA screening, scoping and Environmental Statements.
- Scottish Government: preparation and content of an EIA ReportScotland. Planning Circular 1/2017 uses the term EIA Report.
Sources checked 18 October 2026. The commission confirms the applicable national and local procedure.
Give the work a clear scope.
Send the location, proposed development and the next decision your team needs to make.