Environmental Statement
Chapter E
Transport
31 May 2012
30373/02/MH/LM
Transport Planning Associates 21 Berkeley Square Bristol BS8 1HP
0117 925 9400 www.tpa.uk.com
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
Contents
E1.0 Introduction 6 Site Description 6
E2.0 Policy Context 7
E3.0 Assessment Methodology & Significance Criteria 8 Assessment Methodology 8 Significance Criteria 9 Consultation 11
E4.0 Baseline Conditions 13 Sources of Baseline Information 13 Local Highway Network 14 Pedestrian and Cycle Accessibility 16 Proximity to Local Services and Amenities 17 Public Transport Provision 19 Baseline Traffic Flows 21 Personal Injury Accidents 24
E5.0 Potential Effects 27 Introduction 27 During construction 28 After Completion 29 Assessment of Cumulative Effects 33
E6.0 Mitigation Measures 36 Introduction 36 During construction 36 After Completion 36
E7.0 Residual Effects 38 Introduction 38 During construction 38 After Completion 38
E8.0 Summary & Conclusions 40
E9.0 Abbreviations 41
E10.0 References 42
2545825v1 Chapter E - Transport P3
P4 Chapter E - Transport 2545825v1
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
Tables 1
Table E3.1 Impact Significance 10
Table E3.2 Consultations 11
Table E3.3 Record of Discussions with Torfaen County Borough Council Highway Officers 12
Table E4.1 Sources of Baseline Information 13
Table E4.2 Suggested Acceptable Walking Distances 18
Table E4.3 Baseline Pedestrian and Cycle Journey Length 19
Table E4.4 Summary of Public Transport Services 20
Table E4.5 Summary of Existing Bus Services from Llantarnam Park Way 21
Table E4.6 2012 Baseline Traffic Flows 23
Table E4.7 2022 Baseline Traffic Flows 24
Table E4.8 Newport Road 24 Hour Two-Way Traffic Flows 24
Table E4.9 2012 & 2022 Baseline Accident Rates 26
Table E5.1 Impact of Construction Traffic at Newport Road Roundabout 29
Table E5.2 2022 Forecast Study Area Total Traffic Flows 30
Table E5.3 2022 With Development - Pedestrian and Cycle Journey Lengths 31
Table E5.4 2022 With Development Accident Rates 33
Table E5.5 2022 Forecast Study Area Total Traffic Flows - Base 2022 + Development + Cumulative Effects 34
Table E5.6 2022 With Development + Cumulative Effects Accident Rates 35
Table E7.1 Table of Residual Effects - Transport 39
Table E8.1 Transport Environmental Impact Significance With Development (With Mitigation) - General Summary 40
2545825v1 Chapter E - Transport P5
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
E1.0 Introduction
E1.1 This chapter considers the environmental impact of the proposed development in terms of traffic and transport. It has been prepared by Transport Planning Associates on behalf of Redrow Homes South Wales.
Site Description
E1.2 Llantarnam is located within the County Borough of Torfaen. The site is situated to the south of Llantarnam, between Cwmbran to the north and Newport to the south in an area bound by the A4042 to the east and the A4051 to the west. Newport Road runs on a south west – north east alignment through the site.
E1.3 The sites comprise four parcels of land as illustrated on Figure E1: i Site 1 = Malthouse North;
ii Site 2 = Welsh Government (WG) Site;
iii Site 3 = Malthouse South; and
iv Site 4 = Cottage Site.
E1.4 These four sites form part of the planning application.
E1.5 The cumulative impact in terms of traffic and transport at two additional sites (Parcel A and Parcel B) as shown on Figure E1, are also considered. These sites do not form part of the application.
E1.6 The site is strategically positioned between existing residential development and the Llantarnam Industrial Estate, which is a major employment area. The Estate has developed as a result of the proximity of strategic arterial transport routes, including, the A4042 Trunk Road and the M4 Motorway.
E1.7 The site and its relationship with the local highway network, pedestrian and cycle accessibility, proximity to local services and amenities, schools, employment, retail and leisure opportunities are considered generally in the Transportation Assessment (TA).
P6 Chapter E - Transport 2545825v1
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
E2.0 Policy Context
E2.1 The traffic and transportation aspects of the scheme have been carried out in accordance with “Technical Advice Note (TAN) 18” prepared by the Welsh Assembly Government in 2007, IEA Guidelines for the Environmental Assessment for Road Traffic, Institute of Environmental Assessment and the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB), Highways Agency.
E2.2 The proposals have also been considered in the context of the following documents: i The DfT guidance ‘Manual for Streets’ (2007) and ‘Manual for Streets 2’ (2010);
ii Guidance on Transport Assessments (Department of Transport (DfT, 2007);
iii Gwent Structure Plan (1996); and
iv Torfaen Local Plan (2000).
E2.3 Torfaen County Borough Council resolved on the 4 th October 2005, to cease work on the Torfaen Unitary Development Plan and commence work on the Torfaen Local Development Plan. The Gwent Structure Plan (1996) and Torfaen Local Plan (2000) remain in force until the Torfaen Local Development Plan is complete.
E2.4 The main thrust of up-to-date policy contained within these documents is to reduce car dependency by making walking and cycling trips easier and by encouraging public transport trips between housing and jobs, shops and services.
2545825v1 Chapter E - Transport P7
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
E3.0 Assessment Methodology & Significance Criteria
Assessment Methodology
E3.1 The ES Scoping Report identified that the following traffic and transport issues should be investigated within the ES/TA: i The local highway network
ii Pedestrian and cycle accessibility
iii Public transport accessibility
iv Highway Safety
v The magnitude and consequences of any changes arising between the baseline and with development or construction phases on traffic flows on the local road network within the study area.
E3.2 The ES assessment work will be carried out within an agreed study area which includes the following junctions: i The Crown, Croes-y-Mwyalch, Woodlands and Cwmbran Drive roundabouts.
ii the Newport Road four arm roundabout with Llantarnam Park Way and Cory Park
iii the Newport Road crossroad junction with Malthouse Lane and Pentre Lane
iv the Llantarnam Park Way junction with Ty Coch Lane.
E3.3 The study area for non-car modes is constrained to the reasonable travel distance to facilities within the locality from the development site. The furthest extremities of this cordon are no more than a two kilometre walk from the centre of the redevelopment site. The study area is defined on Figure E1.
E3.4 A Scoping Opinion from Torfaen County Borough Council (TCBC) has been received dated 20 th January 2012. This contains responses from the Welsh Government Transport Division which is included in detail within the consultation section of this chapter. Their comments are considered either as part of the EIA or within the TA as appropriate.
E3.5 The Scoping Opinion from the Welsh Government (WG) has been received and is set out in detail in the consultation section of this Chapter.
P8 Chapter E - Transport 2545825v1
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
Temporal Scope
E3.6 Traffic surveys were carried out in October 2010 for links and junctions identified within the study area. Growth factors have been calculated from historical growth figures in this instance rather than from TEMPRO data. This approach has been agreed with Torfaen highway officers. A permanent ATC counter is located in the vicinity of the Three Blackbirds public house on Newport Road. This has enabled a growth rate to be calculated per annum between 1996 and 2009 in order to determine future year traffic flows. The temporal scope for the ES is as follows: i 2012 Year of Registration of Planning Application
ii 2022 Future Assessment Year
E3.7 The assessment years are considered appropriate as it is envisaged that first occupations will occur late in 2013. At this stage a conservative build out rate of 60 dwellings per annum is forecast which would result in the development being completed in late 2020. The future assessment year will therefore include the full development profile.
E3.8 Personal Injury Accident records have been considered for the five year period between July 2006 and June 2011 has been analysed for the study area including the Crown, Croes-y-Mwyalch, Woodlands and Cwmbran Drive roundabouts and Newport Road.
Significance Criteria
E3.9 There are four categories of impact significance considered, which are Negligible (i.e. nil or close to nil); Minor (or slight) significance, i.e. not noteworthy or material; Moderate significance, i.e. noteworthy or material and Major (or substantial) significance, i.e. extremely noteworthy or material. The situation with and without mitigation measures will be considered. These are considered in Table E3.1.
E3.10 Each significance criteria can relate to a Beneficial (positive) or Adverse (negative) impact.
2545825v1 Chapter E - Transport P9
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
Table E3.1 Impact Significance
Impact Significance Subject Area Major Moderate Minor Negligible
Traffic Flow Traffic associated Traffic associated Traffic associated Traffic associated within the with the with the with the with the Study Area development development development development changes 24 hour changes 24 hour changes 24 hour changes 24 hour or peak hour or peak hour or peak hour or peak hour traffic within the traffic within the traffic within the traffic within the Study Area by Study Area by Study Area by up Study Area by between 15 and between than 5 to 5% 30% or more 30% and 15%
Pedestrian & Cyclist A change in A change in A change in A change in Journey journey length of journey length of journey length of journey length of Length 50% or more between 15 and between 5 and up to 5% 50% 15%
Public Transport A change A change in A change in Accessibility distance to bus A change in distance to bus distance to bus stop journey distance to bus stop of between stop of between 5 length of 50% or stop of up to 5% 15 and 50% and 15% more
Highway Accident rates or Accident Rates or Accident Rates or Safety Accident Rates or number of number of number of number of accidents per year accidents per year accidents per accidents per year change within the change within the year change change within the Study Area by Study Area within the Study Study Area by between 15 and between 5 and Area by 30% or less than 5% 30% 15% more
Construction Traffic associated Traffic associated Traffic associated Traffic associated Traffic with the with the with the with the development development development development changes peak or changes peak changes peak changes peak or 24hr hour traffic 24hr hour traffic 24hr traffic within 24hr traffic within within the Study within the Study the Study Area the Study Area by Area by 30% or Area by between between 5 and less than 5% more 15 and 30% 15%
P10 Chapter E - Transport 2545825v1
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
Consultation
E3.11 The following consultations of note have been carried out, with particular reference to the Transport Assessment and the traffic and transportation section of the Environmental Statement. These are summarised in Table E3.2.
Table E3.2 Consultations
Consultees Comments of Consultees Response in ES
Torfaen County Transportation section of ES Considered within ES Borough Council scoping report appropriate to and TA be considered in ES
Welsh Assembly (i) Transportation section (i) Points to be Government should use 15 year considered assessment period for within Transport November 2011 & trunk road Assessment; subsequent (ii) TEMPRO should be used (ii) As (i); correspondence and assessed against (iii) Cumulative December 2011. historical data impact study (iii) All known committed considered. development should be TEMPRO used as included sensitivity test in (iv) Measures and mitigation TA. should be included (iv) As (i)
E3.12 This enabled the transport related issues to be identified and agreement reached regarding the scope of the transportation chapter of the Environmental Statement at an early stage.
E3.13 In advance of the planning application being prepared, a series of meetings and a Technical Note on traffic assignment/trip rates have been prepared and submitted to Highway Officers and access agreed in principle in order to resolve as many highways and transportation issues as possible.
E3.14 Discussions in respect of layout and access have been carried out with Highway Officers as early as 2009 and have been ongoing on a regular basis; as summarised in Table E3.3.
2545825v1 Chapter E - Transport P11
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
Table E3.3 Record of Discussions with Torfaen County Borough Council Highway Officers
Date Action
19/05/09 Meeting with Torfaen County Borough Council Highways
29/09/10 Issue of Traffic Assessment Report (0905- 15/TN/01A) dated September 2010
13/10/10 Meeting with Torfaen County Borough Council Highways
31/10/11 Meeting with Torfaen County Borough Council Highways
07/03/12 Meeting with Torfaen County Borough Council Highways
P12 Chapter E - Transport 2545825v1
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
E4.0 Baseline Conditions
Sources of Baseline Information
E4.1 The sources of baseline information are included in Table E4.1.
Table E4.1 Sources of Baseline Information
Data Source Date Baseline Topic
Weekday Traffic Surveys PCC Traffic Information October 2010 Consultancy Ltd (Independent Traffic Survey specialist, appointed by the applicant)
Automatic Traffic Count Torfaen County Borough August 2011 Surveys Council
Highway Search Torfaen County Borough January 2010 Council and February 2011
Public Rights of Way Search Torfaen County Borough January 2012 Council
Personal Injury Accident Data Capita Symonds September 2011
Public Transport Information Local Bus Operators Data collected website, Torfaen County between 2009 Borough Council website to present and information at bus stops
Base Mapping Ordnance Survey Between 2009 to present
Topographical Survey Healer Surveys October 2011
Pedestrian and Cycle Torfaen County Borough Various through Information Council website production of the Transportation Assessment
2545825v1 Chapter E - Transport P13
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
Local Highway Network
E4.2 Llantarnam is located within the County Borough of Torfaen. The site is situated to the south of Llantarnam, between Cwmbran to the north and Newport to the south in an area bound by the A4042 to the east and the A4051 to the west. Newport Road runs on a south west – north east alignment through the site.
Newport Road
E4.3 Newport Road is a single carriageway road, approximately 6.8 metres wide. It provides a link between the Woodlands roundabout to the south of Llantarnam and the Crown roundabout to the north of Llantarnam. Historically, Newport Road would have been a primary route for vehicles travelling between Newport, Cwmbran and Abergavenny. However Llantarnam is now bypassed by the A4042 Trunk Road (which provides access between Newport and Abergavenny) and the A4051 (which provides access between Newport and Cwmbran). As such, traffic flows on Newport Road may have been greater than they are at present.
E4.4 Newport Road provides the most direct route to access the site and the Llantarnam Industrial Park from the Woodlands roundabout to the south of the site. However, there is a signed heavy goods vehicle (HGV) route from the Woodlands roundabout to the Llantarnam Industrial Park and this does not include Newport Road. The signed route is via the A4051 towards Cwmbran, where traffic would turn right at the Industrial Park roundabout, known as Cwmbran Drive.
E4.5 Although there is no formal weight restriction on Newport Road, the signed route via the A4042 removes significant volumes of HGV traffic from passing through the southern section of the village of Llantarnam.
E4.6 Newport Road is subject to a 30mph speed limit between the Woodlands roundabout and approximately 100 metres north of the four-arm crossroads with Malthouse Road and Pentre Lane. To the north of this and adjacent to the site the speed limit increases to 40mph to the Llantarnam Park Industrial Park.
E4.7 There are no parking restrictions in the immediate vicinity of the site and street lighting is present throughout the length of Newport Road.
Malthouse Lane
E4.8 Malthouse Lane is between approximately 5.7 and 6.8 metres wide. It forms the eastern arm of a four arm cross road junction with Newport Road and Pentre Lane and is subject to a ‘stop’ traffic regulation as opposed to a ‘give way’ regulation where is meets the major road.
E4.9 Junction visibility from Malthouse Lane appears to be sub-standard although the road only serves a limited number of residential dwellings.
E4.10 Malthouse Lane is subject to the national speed limit east from its junction with Newport Road. There are no street lights present.
P14 Chapter E - Transport 2545825v1
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
Pentre Lane
E4.11 Pentre Lane is approximately 6.0 to 6.8 metres wide and forms the western arm of the four arm crossroad junction with Newport Road and Malthouse Lane.
E4.12 There is no parking at any time double yellow line Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) on both sides of the carriageway from the junction with Newport Road to approximately 15 metres south of the Three Blackbirds Inn public house.
E4.13 Pentre Lane is subject to a 30mph speed limit in this location and there is no street lighting present in the vicinity of the site.
Ty Coch Close
E4.14 Ty Coch Close is approximately five metres wide and serves five residential dwellings.
E4.15 Ty Coch Close forms a simple priority junction with Pentre Lane. The carriageway is blocked off to vehicular traffic approximately 120 metres from its junction with Pentre Lane to stop through traffic from using Ty Coch Lane. It is still possible for pedestrian and cyclists to access Ty Coch Lane.
E4.16 The Three Blackbirds Inn public house is located on the corner of Ty Coch Close and Pentre Lane. There are double yellow lines on both sides of the carriageway at this location.
Ty Coch Lane
E4.17 Ty Coch Lane is accessed from Llantarnam Park Way in the north. The carriageway is between approximately 7.7 and 3.2 metres wide. Access to The Best Western Parkway Hotel is off Ty Coch Lane in the north, and a farm and electricity substation in the south.
E4.18 The road is blocked by concrete bollards in the south to prevent through vehicular traffic to Ty Coch Close. Pedestrian and cycle access is still available.
Llantarnam Park Way
E4.19 Llantarnam Park Way is the main road through Llantarnam Industrial Park from Cwmbran Drive roundabout in the west to Cory Park roundabout in the east.
E4.20 The carriageway is approximately seven metres wide with a continuous two metre wide footway on the northern side. The speed limit is 30mph and street lighting is present.
2545825v1 Chapter E - Transport P15
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
Pedestrian and Cycle Accessibility
Newport Road
Pedestrian Provision
E4.21 Footways are located adjacent to both sides of Newport Road with the exception of a section of the road adjacent to Llantarnam Abbey, where a footway is only present on the eastern side.
E4.22 An existing uncontrolled crossing of Newport Road is provided approximately 300 metres south of the four-arm crossroads with Malthouse Lane and Pentre Lane. This crossing provides access to the northbound bus-stop and also a public footpath that crosses the Lake View area of the Llantarnam Industrial Park. The uncontrolled crossing point is equipped with dropped kerbs and buff coloured tactile paviours.
E4.23 Dropped kerbs and tactile paving are also provided approximately 300 metres to the north of the Malthouse Lane four-arm crossroads to an additional northbound bus stop.
E4.24 Public footpath / right of way information has been provided by Torfaen County Borough Council, who have confirmed that one public footpath runs adjacent to the Malthouse North site. Registered Public footpath No. 419/27/1 is situated along the eastern boundary of the Malthouse North site and crosses the north eastern extent of the site, in the vicinity of Dowlais Brook. Footpath 419/XG5/1 is situated along the western boundary of the development site. The footpath alignments are maintained within the development and therefore no changes are envisaged, except to link the footpaths in to the development.
Cycle Provision
E4.25 There are no existing cycleways or cycle lanes on Newport Road.
Malthouse Lane
E4.26 There are no pedestrian or cycle facilities on Malthouse Lane.
Pentre Lane
E4.27 A footway is provided on the northern side of the carriageway approximately 270 metres from the junction with Ty Coch Close. This provides an off road pedestrian link to the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, approximately 750 metres to the west of the junction with Ty Coch Close.
E4.28 There are no existing cycleways or cycle lanes on Pentre Lane. However, a dedicated cycle route is located along the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal with an access point located off Pentre Lane.
P16 Chapter E - Transport 2545825v1
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
Ty Coch Close
E4.29 There are no existing pedestrian or cycle facilities in the vicinity of Ty Coch Close and the carriageway is observed to serve vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists.
Ty Coch Lane
E4.30 There are no existing pedestrian facilities on Ty Coch Lane and the carriageway is observed to serve vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists.
Llantarnam Park Way
E4.31 There is a continuous footway approximately two metres wide on the northern side of the carriageway and dropped kerbs are generally provided at junction crossing points.
E4.32 There are no dedicated facilities for cyclists on Llantarnam Park Way. However, the road is generally flat and considered suitable for cyclists.
Proximity to Local Services and Amenities
E4.33 The proposed development lies within walking and cycling distance of a good number of existing services and amenities including residential districts, employment areas, and transport facilities including bus stops. Future employees and residents would have the opportunity to travel to the site by walking, cycling or by public transport.
E4.34 Existing pedestrian and cycle journey lengths has been determined between the development site and the following locations: -
(i) Local shops;
(ii) Schools;
(iii) Public House;
(iv) Doctors Surgery;
(v) Parks and Play Areas; and
(vi) Bus Services.
E4.35 In each case the closest facility (i.e. shop or pub) has been used. For pedestrians, journey lengths are based on existing established pedestrian routes and not ‘as the crow flies’.
E4.36 Further details are provided of routes and locations of facilities within the TA. The Institution of Highways & Transportation’s report ‘Guidelines for Providing Journeys on Foot’ (2000) defines desirable, acceptable and preferred maximum walking distances to facilities, as set out in Table E4.2.
2545825v1 Chapter E - Transport P17
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
Table E4.2 Suggested Acceptable Walking Distances
Town Centres (m) Commuting / School/Sight- Elsewhere (m) seeing (m) (i.e. other facilities)
Desirable 200 500 400
Acceptable 400 1,000 800
Preferred 800 2,000 1,200 Maximum
E4.37 Analysis has been carried out to determine the approximate walking distance from the site to local facilities and amenities. The results for baseline pedestrian and cycle journeys are set out in Table E4.3.
E4.38 For cycles, journey lengths are based on dedicated cycle routes, combined footway/cycleways and local roads. Footpaths have not been considered.
E4.39 All distances are measured from a scale plan to an accuracy of 25m for up to 800 metres, and 100m thereafter.
P18 Chapter E - Transport 2545825v1
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
Table E4.3 Baseline Pedestrian and Cycle Journey Length
Journey Length from centre of development site Service/Facility 1. 3. 4. COTTAGE MALTHOUSE 2. WG SITE MALTHOUSE SITE NORTH SOUTH Public House 390m 180m 380m 380m (Three Blackbirds) Bus Stop (Service Nos. 11, 15, 23, 250m 250m 500m 525m X3) 1 Llantarnam General Store 450m 350m 575m 650m
Llantarnam Industrial Park 675m 650m 950m 975m
Roadside Food Outlets 675m 650m 950m 975m Church of St Michael and All 650m 675m 925m 1.1km Angels Llantarnam School 1.1km 1.2km 1.6km 1.6km
St Josephs Hospital 1.7km 1.5km 1.8km 1.9km
Green = Within Desirable Walking Distance, Blue = Within Acceptable Walking Distance, Yellow = Within Preferred Maximum Walking Distance
Public Transport Provision
Newport Road
E4.40 Local bus services on Newport Road provide the principal form of public transport in this area.
E4.41 The bus services in the area are provided by Stagecoach South Wales. Service provision in the vicinity of the site is good, with frequent services to Cwmbran, Newport and Pontypool.
E4.42 The nearest bus stops are located on both sides of Newport Road and are located well within a 400 metre walk distance of the sites, as shown on Figure E1. The northbound stop to the south of the four-arm crossroad junction with Malthouse Lane and Pentre Lane consists of a bus bay, bus cage and a bus boarder and the southbound stop also includes timetable information. The bus stop to the north consists of a flag and bus boarder.
1 Llantarnam General Store – on site of former Petrol Filling Station, Newport Road (near Lansdowne Gardens)
2545825v1 Chapter E - Transport P19
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
E4.43 Bus services travel to the majority of the large settlements in Torfaen. Bus service details and timetable information have been obtained from the local bus service providers. Existing local bus services are summarised in Table E4.4.
Table E4.4 Summary of Public Transport Services
DAILY FREQUENCY SERVICE ROUTE DESCRIPTION OPERATOR DAYTIME EVENING SUNDAY
Cwmbran - Malpas - Bettws - 11 SSW 20 minutes No Service No Service Malpas - Cwmbran
Trevethin - Pontypool - 15 SSW 30 minutes No Service No Service Cwmbran -Newport (Evening)
Blaenavon - Varteg Hill - 23 SSW 30 minutes No Service No Service Pontypool - Cwmbran - Newport
X3 Pontypool – Cwmbran – Cardiff SSW 60 minutes No Service No Service
KEY: SSW = Stagecoach South Wales
E4.44 There are approximately eight local service buses per hour utilising bus stops on Newport Road.
Malthouse Lane, Pentre Lane, Ty Coch Close, Ty Coch Lane
E4.45 Local bus services on Newport Road provide the principal form of public transport in this area, as set out in Table E4.4.
E4.46 The nearest bus stops are located on Newport Road approximately 400 metres walking distance the redevelopment sites.
Llantarnam Park Way
E4.47 Local bus services on Llantarnam Park Way provide the principal form of public transport in this area.
E4.48 The bus services in the area are provided by Stagecoach South Wales. Service provision in the vicinity of the site is good, with frequent services to Cwmbran and Malpas.
E4.49 Bus stops are located approximately 50 metres from the junction with Newport Road in the east and approximately 250 metres from the junction with Cwmbran Drive in the west.
P20 Chapter E - Transport 2545825v1
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
E4.50 The eastern bus stop consists of a bus bay, bus cage and a bus boarder and the western stop also includes timetable information. Additional bus stops and services are located on Newport Road.
E4.51 Bus service details and timetable information have been obtained from the local bus service providers. Existing local bus services on Llantarnam Park Way are summarised on Table E4.5.
Table E4.5 Summary of Existing Bus Services from Llantarnam Park Way
DAILY FREQUENCY
SERVICE ROUTE DESCRIPTION OPERATOR
DAYTIME EVENING SUNDAY
Cwmbran - Malpas - Bettws - 11 SSW 20 minutes No Service No Service Malpas - Cwmbran
KEY: SSW = Stagecoach South Wales
E4.52 From Table E4.5 it can be determined that there are three local service buses per hour utilising the bus stops on Llantarnam Park Way. This service also calls at the bus stops on Newport Road.
Baseline Traffic Flows
E4.53 The following manual classified traffic count and queue length surveys were carried out by Paul Castle Consultancy on Wednesday 13th October 2010 at the following junctions: (i) The existing A4042 (T) Crown Road / Llanfrechfa Way / Newport Road 5-arm roundabout, known as the Crown roundabout; (ii) The existing A4042 (T) / A4051 Croes-y-Mwyalch 3–arm roundabout, known as the Croes-y-Mwyalch roundabout; (iii) The existing Cwmbran Drive / Llantarnam Park Way / Hollybush Way 4- arm roundabout, known as the Cwmbran Drive Roundabout; (iv) The existing Newport Road / A4051 / Malpas Road / Cwmbran Drive 4- arm roundabout, known as the Woodlands Roundabout; (v) The existing Newport Road / Cory Park / Llantarnam Park Way 4-arm roundabout, known as the Newport Road Roundabout; (vi) The existing Llantarnam Park Way priority junction with Ty Coch Lane; and (vii) The existing Newport Road / Malthouse Lane / Pentre Lane four arm crossroad junction.
2545825v1 Chapter E - Transport P21
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
E4.54 ATC data has been provided by the highway authority between 1996 and 2010 from the Three Blackbirds permanent ATC counter located on Newport Road.
Years of Assessment
E4.55 A growth factor has been derived using the data from the permanent ATC counter located on Newport Road (provided by the highway authority between 1996 and 2009). From the ATC data, the annual increase in traffic experienced in the locality between 2010 and 2012 has been calculated. To determine 2012 base traffic flows, the recorded traffic flows have been multiplied by the growth factor.
E4.56 The operation of the junctions has been assessed for the year of application (2012), and also for the year 2022 (a period of ten years after the date of registration for the strategic road network), in accordance with ‘Guidance on Transport Assessment’, published by the DfT. It is noted that TAN18 does not identify any specific assessment criteria.
E4.57 For the purposes of this assessment, the modelling carried out assumes that the proposed roundabout with Newport Road is fully constructed and that Malthouse Road will be realigned through the site as part of these works and as such traffic associated with Malthouse Road has been redistributed accordingly.
P22 Chapter E - Transport 2545825v1
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
Traffic Growth
E4.58 Background traffic growth has been derived from the Three Blackbirds permanent traffic count site based on data between 1996 and 2009.
E4.59 Based on the analysis of the ATC data provided, for the period 2010-2012, a growth factor of 1.0218 is used for the AM peak hour and 1.0036 for the PM peak hour. The full growth rate calculations are including within the Transport Assessment.
E4.60 For the period 2010-2022, a growth factor of 1.1380 is used for the AM peak hour and 1.0218 for the PM peak hour.
E4.61 Table E4.6 and Table E4.7 set out the baseline 2012 and 2022 forecast two- way traffic flows for the vehicular study area.
Table E4.6 2012 Baseline Traffic Flows
Baseline Number of Baseline Heavy Goods Junction Total Traffic Vehicles (HGVs) Flow [with %age of total flow] Crown Roundabout AM Peak 4717 192 [4.1%] PM Peak 3938 102 [2.6%] Croes-y-Mwyalch AM Peak 5340 302 [5.7%] Roundabout PM Peak 4847 175 [3.6%] Cwmbran Drive AM Peak 2317 90 [3.9%] Roundabout PM Peak 2667 55 [2.1%] Woodlands Roundabout AM Peak 4283 150 [3.5%] PM Peak 4237 80 [1.9%] Newport Road AM Peak 1499 42 [2.8%] Roundabout PM Peak 1074 26 [2.4%] Llantarnam Park Way / AM Peak 745 25 [3.4%] Ty Coch Lane Junction PM Peak 645 17 [2.6%]
NOTE: - HGVs included within total traffic flow. All flows are two-way
2545825v1 Chapter E - Transport P23
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
Table E4.7 2022 Baseline Traffic Flows
Baseline Baseline Number of Heavy Junction Total Traffic Goods Vehicles (HGVs) Flow [with %age of total flow] Crown Roundabout AM Peak 5255 215 [4.1%] PM Peak 4012 103 [2.6%] Croes-y-Mwyalch AM Peak 5948 336 [5.6%] Roundabout PM Peak 4935 178 [3.6%] Cwmbran Drive AM Peak 2580 100 [3.9%] Roundabout PM Peak 2714 55 [2.0%] Woodlands Roundabout AM Peak 4768 167 [3.5%] PM Peak 4315 81 [1.9%] Newport Road AM Peak 1668 47 [2.8%] Roundabout PM Peak 1092 26 [2.4%] Llantarnam Park Way / AM Peak 830 28 [3.4%] Ty Coch Lane Junction PM Peak 657 17 [2.6%]
NOTE: - HGVs included within total traffic flow. All flows are two-way
Table E4.8 Newport Road 24 Hour Two-Way Traffic Flows
Baseline Total Year Traffic Flow Average 24 Hour Flows 2012 8989 2022 9736
Personal Injury Accidents
E4.62 Capita Symonds has provided Personal Injury Accident (PIA) data within the vicinity of the development site, for the five year period 01 July 2006 to 30 June 2011 for the following areas: -
(i) The Crown, Croes-y-Mwyalch, Woodlands and Cwmbran Drive roundabouts;
P24 Chapter E - Transport 2545825v1
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
(ii) the Newport Road four arm roundabout with Llantarnam Park Way and Cory Park;
(iii) the Newport Road crossroad junction with Malthouse Road and Pentre Lane;
(iv) the Llantarnam Park Way junction with Ty Coch Lane.
E4.63 The accident data confirms that there has been a total of 49 PIAs in the five year period, 33 of which resulted in slight injury, and 16 resulting in serious injury.
E4.64 Details of the PIAs are further examined within the TA. 2012 and 2022 baseline accident rates for the following junctions are set out in 9 below:
(i) The Crown, Croes-y-Mwyalch, Woodlands and Cwmbran Drive roundabouts;
(ii) the Newport Road four arm roundabout with Llantarnam Park Way and Cory Park;
(iii) the Newport Road crossroad junction with Malthouse Road and Pentre Lane; and
(iv) the Llantarnam Park Way junction with Ty Coch Lane.
E4.65 For junctions, the baseline number of accidents per annum, based on the COBA Manual (DMRB Volume 13, Section 1, Chapter 3) and 2012 and 2022 baseline traffic flows are used.
E4.66 The Crown and Croes-y-Mwyalch Roundabouts are forecast to be associated with 4.9 and 4.8 accidents per year in the 2012 baseline scenario and 5.5 in 2022; this compares to 1.6 and 2.6 recorded PIAs per annum respectively for the 2006-2011 period. The Woodlands Roundabout is forecast to be associated with 4.7 PIAs per year in 2012 and 5.2 in 2022. This compares to 2.0 PIAs for the 2006-2011 period.
2545825v1 Chapter E - Transport P25
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
Table E4.9 2012 & 2022 Baseline Accident Rates
LOCATION PREDICTED NUMBER OF ANNUAL ACCIDENTS
2012 2022
Crown Roundabout 4.91 = 0.019 (50) 1.420 5.48 = 0.019 (54) 1.420
Croes-y-Mwyalch Roundabout 4.83 = 0.033 (707) 0.760 5.46 = 0.033 (830) 0.760
Cwmbran Drive Roundabout 2.49 = 0.024 (184) 0.890 2.88 = 0.024 (217) 0.890
Woodlands Roundabout 4.70 = 0.063 (517) 0.690 5.24 = 0.063 (606) 0.690
Newport Road Roundabout 0.77 = 0.024 (49) 0.890 0.88 = 0.024 (57) 0.890
Llantarnam Park Way / Ty 0.51 = 0.195 (8) 0.460 0.54 = 0.195 (9) 0.460 Coch Lane Junction
P26 Chapter E - Transport 2545825v1
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
E5.0 Potential Effects
Introduction
E5.1 The Transport Assessment which supports the planning application has considered the adequacy of both car based and non-car based transport and the highway elements of the scheme, which include access, capacity and safety. As well as using WG guidelines, the assessment has been supplemented by matters raised by highway officers, planning officers, key stakeholders and interested parties during meetings and public consultation.
E5.2 The development proposal will realign Malthouse Lane through the Malthouse North site from its existing crossroad junction with Newport Road, around 100 metres to the north of this junction. The existing Malthouse Lane will be closed to vehicular traffic approximately 250 metres east of Newport Road. As such, the existing farm dwellings would still achieve access via the existing crossroads.
E5.3 It is considered that the realignment of Malthouse Lane will have a highway safety benefit as it will remove through traffic from the Malthouse Lane arm of the crossroad junction.
E5.4 It will provide considerably enhanced pedestrian and cycle access to Newport Road, bus stops and the proposed local centre by reducing the length of journeys to these facilities.
E5.5 The following criteria / impacts have been considered as part of the Transport Assessment:
(i) The existing traffic flows within the study area;
(ii) The forecast base traffic flows in 2012 and 2022;
(iii) The traffic that would be generated by the proposed development;
(iv) The impact traffic generation by the proposed development has within the study area;
(v) The number of non-vehicular trips that would be generated by the proposed development;
(vi) The impact of non-vehicular trips generated by the proposed development within the study area; and
(vii) A package of measures to mitigate the impact of the development and to improve safety and encourage trips by bus, cycle and on foot, including Travel Plans.
2545825v1 Chapter E - Transport P27
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
E5.6 In addition, in order to consider matters specifically relevant to an Environmental Statement, such as identifying impact level and importance, nature of impact, impact magnitude and significance, an additional assessment methodology has been adopted. This compares the increase in traffic flows within the study area as a result of the development.
During construction
E5.7 The development is proposed to be constructed in phases. Chapter C identifies a seven year construction phase from 2013 to 2020. The development is forecast to be complete by 2020 with a conservative build out rate of 60 dwellings per annum. The key potential impacts of construction traffic to be considered are:
(i) Unsocial hours disturbance;
(ii) Additional large vehicles on the local highway network;
(iii) Mud on the roads; and
(iv) Dust, noise and air quality nuisance.
E5.8 It is envisaged that the construction working hours will generally be 0800-1800 Monday to Friday and 0800-1300 on Saturday. No working shall take place on Sundays or Public Holidays. As no working is proposed at night, it is considered that noise related to construction traffic movements will not give rise to disturbance to local receptors.
E5.9 The construction vehicular access route to the development is to be confirmed, although at this stage it is expected to follow the signed HGV route from the strategic highway network using A4051 Cwmbran Drive, and Llantarnam Park Way.
E5.10 Details of mitigation are set out later in this chapter.
E5.11 In order to determine the likely number of construction vehicle movements associated with the development proposals, an assessment has been undertaken based upon findings detailed with the TRICS Research Report on Construction Traffic (JMP February 2008). The report sets out a ready reckoner for construction vehicle movements based upon the estimated value of a specific project. The report sets out that a total of 29.4 one-way trips are associated with construction per £100,000 of project value.
E5.12 The anticipated project value of the proposed development is estimated at £80 million, and will provide a mixed use development over a seven and a half year build out period, with an average spend per annum of £10.7 million. This equates to a construction cost of £205,769 per week (£10.7m / 52), and £37,413 per day (£205769 / 5.5, based upon a 5.5 day working week).
E5.13 In respect of daily one way vehicle trips (i.e. 29.4 per £100,000), it can be considered that 11 one way construction vehicle trips could be associated with the proposed development per day (i.e. (£37413 / £100000) x 29.4).
P28 Chapter E - Transport 2545825v1
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
E5.14 It is therefore estimated that the development could attract approximately 22 two-way construction vehicle movements per day.
E5.15 Based on similar sized developments it is anticipated that a further 30 two way daily vehicular trips could be associated with the workforce on site during the construction phase.
E5.16 Table E3.1 sets out the impact significance parameters used for the environmental assessment of vehicular traffic flows. It is broadly based on guidance contained within the IEA document ‘Guidance for the Environmental Impact of Road Traffic’ which suggests that when defining the Geographical Boundaries of Assessment links where traffic or heavy vehicles increase by 30% or more and links in specifically sensitive areas where traffic flows increase by 10% or more should be included.
E5.17 The daily construction traffic flows will impact on the local highway network by less than 5% and this will be of negligible environmental significance.
E5.18 Table E5.1 sets out the significance of construction traffic as a result of the development at the nearby Newport Road roundabout junction in the vicinity of the site (i.e. the junction which would experience the greatest impact as a result of the envisaged construction traffic route).
Table E5.1 Impact of Construction Traffic at Newport Road Roundabout
Junction Base Total Base + % Change / Impact Traffic Flow Construction Impact Significance Total Traffic Newport Road Negligible 2022 16138 16190 0.3 Roundabout (Adverse)
E5.19 It is concluded that the construction related traffic will not exceed the traffic levels of the full development and that capacity issues should not arise during the construction phase of the development. In light of the above forecasted trip generation, the impact of construction traffic is likely to be a temporary negligible adverse impact as a result of the construction phase of the proposed development.
After Completion
E5.20 Once the development has been completed the key potential impacts to be considered are summarised below.
E5.21 The ES considers:
(i) The magnitude and consequence of changes in traffic flows on the local highway network as a result of the development;
(ii) Sustainable travel, safety and amenity for pedestrians and cyclists; and
2545825v1 Chapter E - Transport P29
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
(iii) Sustainable travel, safety and amenity for bus passengers.
E5.22 Any outstanding issues raised by Torfaen County Borough Council or WG in their Scoping Opinions have been fully considered within the comprehensive Transport Assessment and Travel Plans which have been submitted to support the planning application.
Assessment of Development – Traffic Flows
E5.23 Table E5.2 sets out the significance of traffic flow increases as a result of the development (item (i) above).
Table E5.2 2022 Forecast Study Area Total Traffic Flows
Junction Base Total Base + % Change Impact Significance Traffic Flow Development / Impact Total Traffic Flow AM Peak 5255 5319 1.2 Negligible adverse Crown Roundabout PM Peak 4012 4168 3.9 Negligible adverse
AM Peak 5948 6025 1.3 Negligible adverse Croes-y-Mwyalch Roundabout PM Peak 4935 4995 1.2 Negligible adverse
AM Peak 2580 2626 1.8 Negligible adverse Cwmbran Drive Roundabout PM Peak 2714 2768 2.0 Negligible adverse
AM Peak 4768 4945 3.7 Negligible adverse Woodlands Roundabout PM Peak 4315 4491 4.1 Negligible adverse
Newport Road AM Peak 1668 1850 10.9 Minor adverse Roundabout PM Peak 1092 1326 21.4 Moderate adverse
Llantarnam Park AM Peak 830 876 5.5 Minor adverse Way / Ty Coch Lane Junction PM Peak 657 719 9.4 Minor adverse
E5.24 Environmental impact will occur as a result of vehicular traffic associated with the development proposals. However, the significance of the increase in traffic at the majority of junctions is negligible and as such will not have a noticeable environmental impact.
P30 Chapter E - Transport 2545825v1
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
Assessment of Development - Pedestrian and Cycle Journeys
E5.25 The magnitude and consequence of change in pedestrian and cycle journey lengths as a result of the development have been carried out. Improvements associated with the development include the provision of new footways and cycleways as well as the realignment of Malthouse Lane.
E5.26 The results for with development pedestrian and cycle journeys are set out in Table E5.3. Further details are provided of routes and locations of facilities within the TA.
Table E5.3 2022 With Development - Pedestrian and Cycle Journey Lengths
Service / Development Site Existing With % Change Significance Facility Journey Development / Impact Length Journey Length Moderate 1. Malthouse North 450m* 350m 22.2 Local Centre beneficial (to include Major convenience 2. WG 350m* 50m 85.7 beneficial store, retail Moderate units & 3. Malthouse South 575m* 375m 34.8 community beneficial Major facility) 4. Cottage 650m* 325m 50.0 beneficial Major 1. Malthouse North 3.4km** 275m 91.9 Public Open beneficial Space Major 2. WG 3.3km** 50m 98.5 (including beneficial formal sports Major 3. Malthouse South 3.5km** 500m 85.7 pitches and beneficial play area) Major 4. Cottage 3.5km** 150m 95.7 beneficial Minor 1. Malthouse North 390m 350m 10.3 beneficial Public House Moderate 2. WG 180m 125m 30.6 (Three beneficial Blackbirds Inn) 3. Malthouse South 380m 380m 0 - 4. Cottage 380m 380m 0 - Moderate 1. Malthouse North 250m 200m 20 beneficial Major Bus Stop 2. WG 250m 80m 68 (Service Nos. beneficial Moderate 11, 15, 23, 3. Malthouse South 500m 300m 40 X3) beneficial Moderate 4. Cottage 525m 350m 33 beneficial
Llantarnam 1. Malthouse North 725m 725m 0 - Industrial Park 2. WG 550m 550m 0 -
2545825v1 Chapter E - Transport P31
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
Service / Development Site Existing With % Change Significance Facility Journey Development / Impact Length Journey Length Minor 950m 900m 5.3 3. Malthouse South beneficial
4. Cottage 975m 975m 0 -
1. Malthouse North 675m 675m 0 -
2. WG 650m 650m 0 - Roadside Food Outlets Minor 950m 900m 5.3 3. Malthouse South beneficial
4. Cottage 975m 975m 0 -
1. Malthouse North 650m 650m 0 -
Church of St 2. WG 675m 675m 0 - Michael and Minor All Angels 925m 875m 5.4 3. Malthouse South beneficial
4. Cottage 1.1km 1.1km 0 -
1. Malthouse North 1.1km 1.1km 0 -
Llantarnam 2. WG 1.2km 1.2km 0 - School & Negligible 1.6km 1.1km 3.1 Leisure Centre 3. Malthouse South beneficial
4. Cottage 1.6km 1.6km 0 -
1. Malthouse North 1.7km 1.7km 0 -
St Josephs 2. WG 1.5km 1.5km 0 - Hospital 3. Malthouse South 1.8km 1.8km 0 - 4. Cottage 1.9km 1.9km 0 - * To nearest retail store ** To nearest play area Based on IHT Guidance - Green = Within Desirable Walking Distance, Blue = Within Acceptable Walking Distance, Yellow = Within Preferred Maximum Walking Distance, No Colour = outside of Preferred Maximum Walking Distance.
E5.27 A positive environmental impact will occur as a result of improvements to the pedestrian and cycle network as a result of the development proposals. A major beneficial impact is the reduction of journey times to new bus stops (situated either side of the proposed roundabout on Newport Road), the nearest retail facility and public open space.
E5.28 The impact significance set out in Table E5.3 as a result of the proposed development is based on the definition of Impact Significance defined in Table E3.1.
P32 Chapter E - Transport 2545825v1
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
E5.29 Two new bus stops with shelters on Newport Road will be provided in accordance with modern guidance and as such they are envisaged to provide a substantial positive benefit.
Accidents and Safety
E5.30 The impact of the development on highway safety has been determined.
E5.31 Table E5.4 sets out the significance of changes to accident rates as a result of the development in 2022. The 2012 and 2022 baseline accident rates for the junctions are set out in Table E4.9.
Table E5.4 2022 With Development Accident Rates
Junction Baseline Accident % Change With Development Significance Rate / Impact
Negligible Crown Roundabout 5.48 = 0.019 (54) 1.420 5.62 = 0.019 (55) 1.420 2.6 adverse Croes-y-Mwyalch 5.46 = 0.033 (830) 5.54 = 0.033 (846) Negligible 1.5 Roundabout 0.760 0.760 adverse Cwmbran Drive 2.88 = 0.024 (217) 3.03 = 0.024 (230) 5.2 Minor adverse Roundabout 0.890 0.890 Woodlands 5.82 = 0.063 (706) 6.00 = 0.063 (738) Negligible 3.1 Roundabout 0.690 0.690 adverse Newport Road 0.88 = 0.024 (57) 0.890 0.97 = 0.024 (64) 0.890 10.2 Minor adverse Roundabout Llantarnam Park Way / Ty Coch Lane 0.51 = 0.195 (8) 0.460 0.54 = 0.195 (9) 0.460 5.9 Minor adverse junction
E5.32 Based on the analysis using the COBA Manual, there is forecast to be minor adverse impact significance at the Cwmbran Drive and Newport Road Roundabout junctions and at the Llantarnam Park Way / Ty Coch Lane junction in 2022. The remainder of the junctions will see a negligible adverse impact on the number of accidents due to the proposed development.
Assessment of Cumulative Effects
E5.33 Table E5.5 sets out the magnitude and significance of traffic flow increases as a result of the development and cumulative impact sites.
E5.34 The cumulative impact sites included within the assessment are shown on Figure E1. These sites comprise 13,200 square metres (sq.m) Gross Floor Area (GFA).
E5.35 These sites do not form part of the planning application.
2545825v1 Chapter E - Transport P33
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
Table E5.5 2022 Forecast Study Area Total Traffic Flows - Base 2022 + Development + Cumulative Effects
Base + Base Development Total % Impact Impact Junction + Cumulative Traffic Change Magnitude Significance Effects Total Flow Traffic Flow Crown AM 5255 5427 3.3 Negligible Adverse Roundabout Peak PM 4012 4235 5.6 Minor Adverse Peak Croes-y- AM 5948 6130 3.1 Negligible Adverse Mwyalch Peak Roundabout PM 4935 5119 3.7 Negligible Adverse Peak Cwmbran AM 2580 3146 21.9 Moderate Adverse Drive Peak Roundabout PM 2714 3226 18.9 Moderate Adverse Peak Woodlands AM 4768 5203 9.1 Minor Adverse Roundabout Peak PM 4315 4769 10.5 Minor Adverse Peak Newport AM 1668 2020 21.1 Moderate Adverse Road Peak Roundabout PM 1092 1440 31.9 Major Adverse Peak Llantarnam AM 830 1298 56.4 Major Adverse Park Way / Peak Ty Coch PM Lane Peak 657 970 47.6 Major Adverse Junction NOTES: - HGVs included within total traffic flow
E5.36 The levels of Impact Significance are consistent with that which would be expected once cumulative development sites are included within the assessment. In particular it is noted that the majority of the percentage increase in traffic at the Llantarnam Park Way / Ty Coch Close junction and at the Newport Road Roundabout is associated with the cumulative impact scheme and not the proposed development of sites 1 to 4, i.e. the application scheme. No mitigation is therefore considered necessary. It is also noted that the impact at these two junctions is exacerbated by the fact that base traffic flows at the junction are very low in comparison with the remainder of the local highway network within the ES study area.
E5.37 Environmental impact will occur as a result of vehicular traffic associated with the development proposals. The significance of the increase in traffic at the Cwmbran Drive junction is moderate; however the impact at the key Woodlands, Crown and Croes-y-Mwyalch roundabouts is negligible or minor.
P34 Chapter E - Transport 2545825v1
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
Accidents and Safety
E5.38 The impact of the development on highway safety has been determined.
E5.39 Table E5.6 sets out the significance of changes to accident rates as a result of the development in 2022 plus development at Parcels A and B, considered as cumulative effects.
Table E5.6 2022 With Development + Cumulative Effects Accident Rates
Junction Baseline Accident Rate With Development + % Significance Cumulative Effects Change / Impact Crown Roundabout 5.48 = 0.019 (54) 1.420 5.77 = 0.019 (56) 1.420 5.3 Minor adverse
Croes-y-Mwyalch 5.75 = 0.033 (888) 5.46 = 0.033 (830) 0.760 5.3 Minor adverse Roundabout 0.760 Cwmbran Drive 3.73 = 0.024 (290) Moderate 2.88 = 0.024 (217) 0.890 29.5 Roundabout 0.890 adverse Woodlands 6.56 = 0.063 (840) 5.82 = 0.063 (706) 0.690 12.7 Minor adverse Roundabout 0.690 Newport Road 0.88 = 0.024 (57) 0.890 1.19 = 0.024 (80) 0.890 35.2 Major adverse Roundabout Llantarnam Park Way / Ty Coch Lane 0.51 = 0.195 (8) 0.460 0.56 = 0.195 (10) 0.460 9.8 Minor adverse junction
E5.40 Based on this analysis, there is forecast to be a major adverse increase in the accident rate at the Newport Road roundabout junction in 2022 with the additional development. The majority of this increase can be considered to be attributable to the cumulative sites rather than the application site. Furthermore, the impact is exacerbated by the very low starting point within the baseline scenario. Even in the 2022 base plus development plus cumulative impact scenario the forecast is little more than one accident per annum, which is not considered to be associated with a highway safety issue.
2545825v1 Chapter E - Transport P35
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
E6.0 Mitigation Measures
Introduction
E6.1 A package of mitigation measures will be implemented to minimise the impact of traffic associated with the development. This section sets out those measures proposed.
During construction
E6.2 A Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) will be implemented during the construction phase of the project. The aim is to minimise the impact of the construction phase on local residents, businesses and the local highway network. It will contain a package of agreed mitigation measures which are expected to include:
(i) An obligation that the main site contractor will operate the site in line with an approved Health and Safety Plan, which will comply with requirements of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007. Furthermore, the main contractor will be expected to join the Considerate Contractors Scheme;
(ii) The site contractor organising local press releases and residents meetings as necessary in order to keep local residents informed of progress. In addition, these will be used to provide advance warning of any significant planned events;
(iii) Details limiting the hours of site operation and the routing of construction traffic to protect local residential districts from construction traffic, especially from HGVs where possible. This will be discussed at the appropriate time and if considered necessary by the Council these could be secured separately by means of a Planning Condition;
(iv) The introduction of wheel washing facilities before allowing vehicles to return to the local highway. In addition, a road sweeping vehicle will be available to remove any site residue upon the local roads; and
(v) The site will be secured with solid panel hoarding. This will provide protection and minimise dust and nuisance to local residents and the general public. Dust creation will be monitored closely throughout the scheme and appropriate measures taken when and if required preventing nuisance. Air Quality is considered in more detail in Chapter K of the Environmental Statement.
After Completion
E6.3 Mitigation measures which could be introduced prior to occupation of the development are:
P36 Chapter E - Transport 2545825v1
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
• physical capacity improvements at the existing Woodlands and Crown roundabout junctions; and
• enhanced pedestrian crossing facilities between Malpas and Llantarnam (i.e. A4051/A4052).
E6.4 The development will also provide new bus stops, in accordance with modern guidance, on Newport Road in the vicinity of the site to encourage travel by public transport.
E6.5 These mitigation measures are set out in more detail in the supporting Transport Assessment.
E6.6 Travel Plans for the residential, employment and local centre uses will be agreed with Torfaen County Borough Council in advance and implemented at the development in order to promote continued use of modes of transport other than the private car. The Travel Plan documents accompany the planning application. A summary of measures included are set out below:
(i) Appointment of a Travel Plan Coordinator;
(ii) Cycle Parking;
(iii) New Bus Stops on Newport Road;
(iv) Resident’s welcome pack;
(v) Employee Travel Leaflet;
(vi) Car Club Scheme;
(vii) Travel Notice Boards;
(viii) Community Website;
(ix) Sustainable Travel Information.
2545825v1 Chapter E - Transport P37
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
E7.0 Residual Effects
Introduction
E7.1 The mitigation measures set out in Section 6 are forecast to reduce the residual impact of the project phase by one level of significance, resulting in overall negligible adverse impact . The one exception is the Newport Road roundabout which in terms of traffic flows will have a minor adverse impact . In the context of the local highway network as a whole however, the resultant traffic flows will be lower at this junction than existing traffic flows at for example the nearby Cwmbran Drive roundabout and as such there will be no adverse environmental impact.
During construction
E7.2 The environmental significance of construction traffic on Newport Road and the surrounding area has been identified to be negligible and a Construction Management Plan will be implemented to minimise environmental impact.
After Completion
E7.3 The residential, employment and local centre Travel Plans will be monitored for a period of ten years from the first occupation at the site.
E7.4 The success of Travel Plans will be monitored and reviewed by the appointed Travel Plan Coordinator and TCBC every two years.
E7.5 Should the travel plan measures, initiatives and targets be unsuccessful then these may be adjusted or alternative measures could be implemented to meet the agreed targets.
E7.6 The Travel Plan combined with improvements to the local pedestrian, cycle and public transport infrastructure (bus stops) will reduce the environmental impact below the levels assessed within the ES ranging from long term minor to major beneficial significance.
E7.7 It is concluded that there are no highways or transportation reasons why the proposed development cannot proceed.
P38 Chapter E - Transport 2545825v1
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
Table E7.1 Table of Residual Effects - Transport
Significance Residual Effect Nature of Aspect (Substantial/ (Major/Moderate/ Potential Effect (Permanent/ Moderate/Minor) Mitigation Measures Minor) Temporary) (Beneficial/Adverse (Beneficial/Adverse/
/Negligible) Negligible)
Construction Effects
Unsocial Hours Temporary Negligible Construction Negligible Adverse Disturbance Adverse Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) – limit hours of operation
Increase in Temporary Negligible CEMP – routing of HGVs Negligible Adverse HGVs on Adverse network
Mud on Roads Temporary Negligible CEMP – wheel washing Negligible Adverse Adverse and road sweeping
Dust, noise Temporary Negligible CEMP – solid panel Negligible Adverse Adverse hoarding
Operational Effects
Change in Permanent Negligible Travel Plans Minor to Major Beneficial Traffic Flows Adverse Physical Capacity Improvements
Sustainable Permanent Major Beneficial N/A Major Beneficial Travel, Safety and Amenity for Pedestrians and Cyclists
Sustainable Permanent Major Beneficial N/A Major Beneficial Travel, Safety and Amenity for Bus Passengers
Accidents & Permanent Negligible /Minor N/A Negligible Adverse Safety Adverse
2545825v1 Chapter E - Transport P39
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
E8.0 Summary & Conclusions
E8.1 This section has considered the environmental impact of the proposed development in terms of traffic and transportation. It has been prepared with consideration to the Scoping Opinion from Torfaen County Borough Council and the Welsh Government.
E8.2 The location of the development is such that it has a good mix of services, facilities, amenities and public transport opportunities, which are likely to be required on a daily basis, located within walking and cycling distance as a result of the development proposal. This will also enhance the sustainability of Llantarnam in respect of proximity to a convenience store, employment and play areas.
E8.3 Impact significance has been defined for the development with regard to “Guidelines for the Environmental Assessment of Road Traffic”, which states that a significant environmental impact may occur when traffic flows increase by more than 30%. This has, for the purpose of this assessment, been considered to represent major adverse impact significance.
E8.4 Table E8.1 sets out a broad-brush summary of the ‘with development’ environmental impacts in terms of significance. It should be noted that this has been simplified to provide an indicative summary only and specific impacts for each topic should be referred to within the main body of the text.
Table E8.1 Transport Environmental Impact Significance With Development (With Mitigation) - General Summary
Topic With Development
Vehicular Traffic Flows Negligible -ve
HGV Traffic Flows Negligible -ve
Accidents and Safety Negligible -ve
Pedestrian and Cycle Journeys Major +ve
E8.5 The forecast traffic flows when the development is anticipated to be completed in 2022 will generally have negligible adverse impact significance. A package of measures has been proposed to mitigate any adverse impacts including Travel Plans and new and improved pedestrian and cycle routes.
E8.6 There are therefore no highways or transportation environmental reasons which should percent the proposed development of this site.
P40 Chapter E - Transport 2545825v1
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
E9.0 Abbreviations
1 ATC – Automatic Traffic Count 2 CEMP – Construction Environmental Management Plan 3 COBA – Cost Benefit Analysis 4 DfT – Department for Transport 5 DMRB – Design Manual for Roads and Bridges 6 ES – Environmental Statement 7 HGV – Heavy Goods Vehicle 8 IEA – Institute of Environmental Assessment 9 IHT – Institute of Highways and Transportation 10 PIA – Personal Injury Accident 11 TA – Transport Assessment 12 TAN – Technical Advice Note 13 TCBC – Torfaen County Borough Council 14 TRO – Traffic Regulation Order 15 WG - Welsh Government
2545825v1 Chapter E - Transport P41
Llantarnam, Torfaen : Environmental Statement
E10.0 References
1 Adopted Local Plan for the County Borough of Torfaen, Torfaen County Borough Council (2000) 2 Guidance Notes No.1: Guidelines for the Environmental Assessment of Road Traffic, Institute of Environmental Assessment (IEA, now the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA)) (1993) 3 Guidance on Transport Assessments (Department for Transport, 2007) 4 Gwent Structure Plan (Gwent County Council, 1996). 5 Manual for Streets , Department for Transport (DfT) (2007) 6 Manual for Streets 2, DfT (2010) 7 Providing for Journeys on Foot , Institute of Highways and Transportation (IHT, now the Chartered Institute of Highways and Transportation (CIHT)) (2000) 8 TAN18: Transport , Welsh Assembly Government (2007) 9 The COBA Manual, DMRB 13.1 10 TRICS Research Report on Construction Traffic , JMP (2008).
P42 Chapter E - Transport 2545825v1