So, you’ve lodged your Development Application. After months of feasibility studies, consultant meetings and LinkedIn updates, things are moving forward… Until you get that dreaded Council email…
“Please provide a Traffic Impact Assessment.”
Well, now you’ve hit a bit of a roadblock (if you’ll pardon the pun).
And so you’re left with the question…
What is a Traffic Impact Assessment?
A Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA) reviews the traffic and transport operations, performance, and safety of a study area:
- Pre-development scenario – how the network functions now.
- Post-development scenario – how the network will perform once your project is built.
If the post-development impact is acceptable, you’re in the clear.
If not, mitigation measures such as additional lanes, upgraded intersections, or improved pedestrian facilities may be necessary.
Key Criteria of a Traffic Impact Assessment
Access Arrangements
- Is the access crossover design compliant for the intended vehicles?
- Does the location provide adequate sight distance for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians?
- Are too many access points being created?
- Will turning lanes or medians be required at the frontage?
Car Parking
- Does the proposal meet peak parking demand?
- If not, what’s the impact on on-street parking, public transport or active transport?
Service Vehicles
- Do service vehicle requirements demand upgrades to lane widths, crossovers or intersections?
- What restrictions or routes apply for service vehicles accessing the site?
Traffic Generation
- How many trips will the development generate compared to the current site?
- Are trip rates above or below industry standards, considering nearby transport options?
Road Capacity
- Can the existing road network handle current demand?
- How will the new trips affect capacity and operations?
- Is lane widening or duplication needed?
Intersection Capacity
- Are intersections adequate for existing traffic?
- How will development traffic affect delays and queuing?
- Will upgrades—such as added lanes or signals—be required?
Safety Assessment
- What is the crash history near the site?
- Are there underlying safety risks?
- How will the development change these risks?
- What treatments can mitigate safety concerns?
Do All Traffic Impact Assessments Need This Detail?
Not always. Requirements differ between councils and states across Australia. To illustrate this, the TMR QLD Traffic Impact Assessment Guide differs from NSW Gov’s. Lucky for you, Modus operates Australia-wide and is compliant with all government requirements.
That’s why it’s best to engage an experienced Traffic Engineering Consultant early. We will determine the right level of detail for your project. Saving you time, money and stress in the long run.
Why Engage Modus for Your Traffic Impact Assessment?
Traffic Impact Assessments are one of many Traffic Engineering services we provide.
If you’re unsure whether your project needs a Traffic Impact Assessment, or you’ve been asked to provide one as part of a Development Application, our team at Modus can help.
Our friendly team prepare clear, compliant TIAs with tailored solutions to keep your project on time and on budget.
