Transport Note Whalley

A technical note was deemed essential for phase 4 of the business park development located on Mitton Road in Whalley, a quaint town near Clitheroe, Lancashire. This phase of the project needed significant attention due to the potential impact on local traffic patterns, particularly concerning Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) accessing the site. The Highways department expressed specific concerns regarding the routes that HGVs would take, given the presence of a narrow bridge in one direction and an alternative route that leads through a bustling town centre, characterised by its narrow streets and pedestrian footways. These factors raised important questions about safety, traffic congestion, and the overall impact on the local community.

To address these concerns, iRIS Sustainable Planning produced a detailed technical note. This document meticulously outlined the anticipated breakdown of vehicular traffic associated with the development, focusing particularly on the volume and frequency of HGVs that would likely access the site. In order to provide a robust analysis, we employed a technique known as gravity weighting. This analytical method is instrumental in evaluating not only the distances and travel times involved but also incorporates various influencing factors such as the size of nearby settlements, existing infrastructure, and the overall traffic dynamics in the area.

Through the application of gravity weighting, we were able to identify the probable routes that HGV traffic would utilise when accessing the business park. This involved a thorough examination of the local road network, including the assessment of traffic flow patterns, road capacities, and potential bottlenecks. By integrating these elements into our analysis, we successfully predicted the volume of vehicles that would cross the narrow bridge and navigate through the town centre. The findings from our technical note provided critical insights for planners and site managers, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding traffic management and mitigation strategies. This information is vital for ensuring that the development proceeds smoothly while minimising disruption to the local community and maintaining safety standards. Ultimately, our work contributed to a comprehensive understanding of the traffic implications of the business park, allowing all stakeholders to engage in effective planning and coordination for the successful implementation of phase 4.