Planning for development

Travel Plans are increasingly being requested by Local Planning Authorities as part of the planning process.

Policy Background

Planning Policy Guidance Note 13: Transport issued by the Government in 2001 stated that 'Travel Plans should be submitted alongside planning applications for all major developments. Also for smaller developments which are likely to generate significant amounts of travel and where there are already local traffic problems.'

Following this in 2002, the DfT and ODPM issued best practice guidance 'Using the Planning Process to Secure Travel Plans.' This guidance is currently being updated. Making residential developments Work (2005) has been produced specifically for residential developments. For further information please see the Residential Travel Plans Section. 

On a local level, the Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) has been developed by the five Merseyside local authorities. It is being progressed through each of their Local Development Frameworks (LDF) to ensure a consistent approach across Merseyside to securing sustainable access to new development. The document explains how you can make sure your development satisfies policies contained in the Local Development Documents.

The main objective of the SPD is to 'ensure a reasonable choice of access by all modes to a new development.' This document is part of the overall transport strategy as set out in the Merseyside Local Transport Plan (MLTP).

Each district is currently in the process of formally adopting the SPD;

• In Liverpool, the draft SPD is being consulted upon for 6 weeks from 25th April until 6th June 2008 - for further information please visit their consultation site.
• In Sefton, the draft SPD is being consulted upon for 6 weeks from 23rd May until 4th July 2008 - for further information please visit their consultation site.