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Barrack Road, Northampton - Proposed Educational, Commercial and Residential Development

Framework Travel Plan

Report



Report

JMP Consultants Limited 10 Victoria Street, Bristol, BS1 6BN T 0117 922 9040 E [email protected] www.jmp.co.uk

Job No. ST14269

Report No. 002

Prepared by GR

Verified LC

Approved by LC

Status Final

Issue No. 003

Date 13 June 2014



Report

Contents Amendments Record

This document has been issued and amended as follows:

Status/Revision Revision description Issue Number Approved By Date

Draft For review 001 LC 30/05/2014

Final 002 LC 12/06/2014

Final 003 LC 13/06/2014

Contents

1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................ 1

General ....................................................................................................................................... 1

Background................................................................................................................................. 1

Proposed Development .............................................................................................................. 1

Report Structure ......................................................................................................................... 1

2 POLICY REVIEW ....................................................................................................................... 3

General ....................................................................................................................................... 3

National Policy ............................................................................................................................ 3

Local Policy................................................................................................................................. 4

Summary .................................................................................................................................... 7

3 SITE ASSESSMENT .................................................................................................................. 9

Overview ..................................................................................................................................... 9

Site Location & Description ........................................................................................................ 9

Public Transport ....................................................................................................................... 10

Pedestrian Access .................................................................................................................... 11

Cycle Access ............................................................................................................................ 12

Parking ...................................................................................................................................... 12

4 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT ................................................................................................. 13

Site Application ......................................................................................................................... 13

Parking Provision ...................................................................................................................... 13

Site Accessibility ....................................................................................................................... 14

5 AIMS, OBJECTIVES & TARGETS ........................................................................................... 16

General ..................................................................................................................................... 16

Aim ............................................................................................................................................ 16

Objectives ................................................................................................................................. 16

Targets ...................................................................................................................................... 16

6 SITE-WIDE TRAVEL PLAN MEASURES ................................................................................ 17

Travel Plan Co-ordinator .......................................................................................................... 17

7 EDUCATION TRAVEL PLAN TARGETS & MEASURES ........................................................ 19

Context ..................................................................................................................................... 19

Travel Patterns & Targets ......................................................................................................... 19

Delivering the Travel Plan ........................................................................................................ 21

Measures for Reducing Reliance on the Private Car ............................................................... 23

Summary .................................................................................................................................. 23

8 COMMERCIAL TRAVEL PLAN TARGETS & MEASURES ..................................................... 24

Commercial Space ................................................................................................................... 24

Travel Patterns & Targets ......................................................................................................... 24

Nursery Measures .................................................................................................................... 25

Gym .......................................................................................................................................... 26

Gym Measures ......................................................................................................................... 26

9 MONITORING STRATEGY ...................................................................................................... 29

General ..................................................................................................................................... 29

Targets ...................................................................................................................................... 29

Monitoring ................................................................................................................................. 29

10 DELIVERING THE TRAVEL PLAN .......................................................................................... 30

Roles and Responsibilities ....................................................................................................... 30

Action Plan................................................................................................................................ 30

11 SUMMARY & CONCLUSIONS ................................................................................................ 33

Tables and Figures

Table 3.1 Bus Frequency ................................................................................................................ 10 Table 7.1 Primary School Travel Mode Split .................................................................................... 20 Table 7.2 Target Modal Split ............................................................................................................ 20 Table 7.3 Secondary School Travel Mode Split ............................................................................... 20 Table 7.4 Target Secondary School and Sixth Form Modal Split .................................................... 21 Table 8.1 Nursery Travel Mode Split ................................................................................................ 24 Table 8.2 Target Nursery Modal Split .............................................................................................. 25 Table 8.3 Gym Travel Mode Split ..................................................................................................... 26 Table 8.4 Target Modal Split ............................................................................................................ 26 Table 10.1 Action Plan - Pre Occupation ........................................................................................ 30 Table 10.2 Action Plan - Upon Occupation ..................................................................................... 31 Table 10.3 Action Plan - Post Occupation ...................................................................................... 31

Figure 3.1 Site Context Plan ............................................................................................................. 9

Appendices

APPENDIX A Proposed Site Layout APPENDIX B NCC School Travel Plan Template APPENDIX C TRICS Assessment APPENDIX D NCC Cycle Map

Job No Report No Issue no Report Name Page

ST14269 002 003 Barrack Road, Northampton - Proposed Educational, Commercial and Residential Development

1

1 Introduction

General

1.1 JMP Consultants Limited (JMP) has been commissioned by LGSS Property Services Ltd, on behalf

of Northamptonshire County Council (NCC), to develop a Framework Travel Plan (FTP) in

connection with the redevelopment of the former Royal Mail Sorting Office located at 55 Barrack

Road, Northampton, NN1 1AA (the `Site`).

1.2 The Local Planning and Highways Authority is Northamptonshire County Council (`NCC`).

Background

1.3 The proposed Site is situated on the land to the west of Barrack Road (A508).

1.4 The Site is bordered to the south by The Castle Primary School and by the Leicestershire,

Northamptonshire & Rutland Army Cadet Force. Alliston Gardens borders the Site to the north. The

immediate vicinity of the Site is predominantly a residential area, however a variety of businesses

including a golf shop, restaurant, public house and fishing supplies shop are located opposite the

site on the east side of Barrack Road.

1.5 In October 2011 a planning application (Reference N/2011/0998) for a foodstore on the Site was

submitted to Northampton Borough Council. This application was granted full planning permission

in November 2012 but has not been implemented.

Proposed Development

1.6 The proposal is to develop the Site to provide:

10FE (1500 pupil) Secondary School,

300 place Sixth Form Centre,

2FE (420 pupil) primary school,

175sqm Nursery,

165sqm Cafe,

1300sqm Gym

Residential Development of 2 x 1 bed and 5 x 2 bed apartments, and,

A 127 space car park including 12 disabled spaces for staff and visitors to the Site.

1.7 A Framework Travel Plan is required due to the proposed occupation of the Site by multiple land-

uses. It is designed so as to mitigate the transport impacts associated with all aspects of the

Proposed Development.

Report Structure

1.8 Following this introductory section, the remainder of this FTP is structured as follows:

Section 2: Policy Review – Reviews current and emerging national and local transport

planning policies in the context of the Proposed Development;

Page Job No Report No Issue no Report Name

2 ST14269 002 003 Barrack Road, Northampton - Proposed Educational, Commercial and Residential Development

Section 3: Site Assessment – Describes transport conditions prevailing at the Site and the

surrounding area;

Section 4: Development Proposals – Looks at the Proposed Development in greater detail,,

including car parking proposals;

Section 5: Aims, Objectives and Targets – Sets out the aims, objectives and targets for the

School;

Section 6: Site Travel Plan Measures and Initiatives – Discusses the proposed FTP

measures and initiatives for the overall Site;

Section 7: Education Travel Patterns, Targets & Measures - Outlines the predicted travel

patterns, targets and proposed FTP measures and initiatives for Education element of the Site;

Section 8: Commercial Travel Patterns, Targets & Measures - Outlines the predicted travel

patterns, targets and proposed FTP measures and initiatives for Commercial element of the

Site;

Section 9: Monitoring Strategy – Sets out the monitoring strategy for the FTP upon

completion of the School;

Section 10: Action Plan, Roles and Responsibilities – Provides an example of an Action

Plan for the FTP and then sets out the roles and responsibilities of those tasked with delivering

the FTP.

Section 11: Summary & Conclusions.

1.9 All technical appendices (A - E) are included at the end of the FTP for information.



3

2 Policy Review

General

2.1 This section of the Transport Assessment sets out the relevant current national and local transport

planning policy relevant to the proposed development.

National Policy

National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) (2012)

2.2 The final version of the NPPF was published on 27 March 2012. This document provides

information as to how the Government expects planning policies across England are to be applied.

The NPPF defines the delivery of sustainable development through three roles:

Planning for prosperity (an economic role);

Planning for people (a social role); and

Planning for places (an environmental role).

2.3 NPPF recognises that transport policies have an important role in wider sustainability and health

objectives as well as their direct influence on development. It seeks to ensure that the transport

system is balanced in favour of sustainable transport modes giving people a real choice about how

they travel.

2.4 The NPPF states that ‘plans should protect and exploit opportunities for the use of sustainable

transport modes for the movement of goods or people’. Therefore, developments should be located

and designed where practical to (para. 35), among other things:

Accommodate the efficient delivery of goods and supplies;

Give priority to pedestrian and cycle movements, and have access to high quality public

transport facilities; and

Create safe and secure layouts which minimise conflicts between traffic and cyclists or

pedestrians.

2.5 At the heart of the NPPF is a presumption in favour of sustainable development which ‘should be

seen as a golden thread running through both plan making and decision taking.’ It is also stated

that ‘Policies in Local Plans should follow the approach of the presumption in favour of sustainable

development so that it is clear that development which is sustainable can be approved without

delay’.

2.6 It states that all developments that generate significant amounts of movement should be supported

by a Transport Statement or Transport Assessment also explaining that plans and decisions should

take account of whether;

The opportunities for sustainable transport modes have been taken up depending on the

nature and location of the site, to reduce the need for major transport infrastructure.

The needs of people with disabilities travelling to the site via all modes of transport can be met.

Improvements can be undertaken within the transport network that cost effectively limit the

significant impacts of the development. Development should only be prevented or refused on

transport grounds where the residual cumulative impacts of development are severe.



Department for Transport Guidance on Transport Assessment (GTA) (2007)

2.7 The GTA ‘is intended to assist stakeholders in determining whether an assessment may be

required and, if so, what the level and scope of that assessment should be. It provides guidance on

the content and preparation of TAs and TSs’.

2.8 This document states that a TA should address the following issues:

Reducing the need to travel, especially by car – ensure, at the outset, that thought is given to

reducing the need to travel; consider the types of uses (or mix of uses) and the scale of

development in order to promote multipurpose or linked trips.

Sustainable accessibility – promote accessibility by all modes of travel, in particular public

transport, cycling and walking; assess the likely travel behaviour or travel pattern to and from

the proposed site; and develop appropriate measures to influence travel behaviour.

Dealing with residual trips – provide accurate quantitative and qualitative analyses of the

predicted impacts of residual trips from the proposed development and ensure that suitable

measures are proposed to manage these impacts.

Mitigation measures – ensure as much as possible that the proposed mitigation measures

avoid unnecessary physical improvements to highways and promote innovative and

sustainable transport solutions.

2.9 Appendix B provides guidance on the appropriate assessment for a wide ranging variety of land

uses. With regard to Land Use D1 Non-residential institutions, which includes non-residential

education and training centres a Transport Assessment and Travel Plan is deemed to be required if

the total GFA is more than 1000sq.m.

Local Policy

West Northamptonshire Joint Core Strategy

2.10 The West Northamptonshire Joint Core Strategy (JCS) when adopted shall ‘provide a long-term

vision for the area with an overall framework in which more detailed plans will be drawn up and

decisions made.’

2.11 A pre submission document was prepared in 2011 setting out a planning strategy for the West

Northamptonshire area with this designed to meet the long-term vision of the area and also provide

core strategic policies which will provide guidance to the 4 councils within the area. Since

publication of this document alterations have been proposed with the JCS the subject of public

examination. Review of examination submissions identifies that none fundamentally alter the

transport and highway matters set out within the 2011 document and as such the review that

follows is based on the 2011 document.

2.12 The JCS comments that ‘historically the provision of infrastructure within West Northamptonshire

has failed to keep pace with and fully support a growing population.’ Infrastructure including

utilities, education and health are essential in order to support residential developments within

West Northamptonshire.

2.13 The JCS makes clear reference to the importance of travel within West Northamptonshire. ‘It is

important for economic prosperity and quality of life that people can easily reach important facilities

such as education, employment, healthcare facilities, shops and leisure attractions. At present

there are a high number of car journeys within and between urban areas leading to congestion.’



5

Given these considerations the JCS highlights that all new developments should be within easy

reach of a variety of transport modes including walking, cycling and public transport.

2.14 Policy E6 of the JCS - titled Education, Skills and Training states that ‘New educational facilities will

be encouraged and should be developed at sites which are accessible by sustainable transport

modes.’ In relation to this the JCS also makes reference to the benefit in locating educational

facilities in town centres as it helps to improve the vitality and viability of the town centres.

2.15 It is discussed within the JCS that the Northampton Central Area Action Plan (which itself is

examined in this chapter) must work in tandem with the JCS to ensure that planning policies for

Northampton’s central area actively support regeneration projects.

Northamptonshire Transportation Plan (March 2012)

2.16 The Northamptonshire Transportation Plan (NTP) was published by Northamptonshire County

Council (NCC) in March 2012 and replaces the county’s interim Third Local Transport Plan. It sets

out plans and policies for future transportation in Northamptonshire, as well as how those plans will

be implemented. The Plan consists of a suite of ‘daughter’ documents which address strategies for

a range of topic areas (e.g. bus strategy, cycling strategy) and geographic areas.

2.17 The aim of the Transportation Plan is to deliver a transportation system which is ‘fit for purpose.’

This overarching aim is broken down into six objectives:

Fit for the future – creating a system which supports, encourages and plans for future growth

Fit for the community – maintaining and creating cohesive, sustainable communities where

people are actively involved in shaping the places in which they live

Fit to choose – ensuring people have the information and options available to choose the form

of transport they use for each journey

Fit for economic growth – supporting economic growth and regeneration

Fit for the environment – minimising and reducing the effect of travel on the built, natural and

historic environment

Fit for best value – focusing on value for money and benefiting the community as a whole

2.18 The document contains a range of strategic policies, those which are of clear relevance to this

application are recorded below.

2.19 Strategic Policy 3 of the NTP states that:

‘We will ensure that all new developments are well connected by public transport and walking,

cycling and motor vehicles routes, to the existing transport network or one that can be reasonable

expected to be created – this will allow ease of movement between the development and existing

built up areas and provide access to employment and key services.’

2.20 Strategic Policy 15 of this document asserts that:

‘We will seek to improve accessibility to employment and services such as healthcare, leisure and

education for all people of Northamptonshire, including those who, for whatever reason, have

access to a limited range of transport modes.’



Northampton Town Transport Strategy, December 2012

2.21 The Northampton Town Transport Strategy (NTTS) is one of the thematic daughter documents

produced under the Northamptonshire Transportation Plan. It was adopted in December 2012,

following a consultation in autumn 2012. The Strategy establishes NCC’s vision for transport

associated with Northampton up to 2026.

2.22 The objectives of the NTTS are:

To have sustainability at its core, whilst initially balancing the regeneration demands of the

town;

To make the Northampton of the future a connected town;

To achieve significant modal shift away from the car; and

To support and enable Northampton’s regeneration, including Northampton Alive sites and the

Waterside Enterprise Zone.

Northampton Central Area Action Plan (NCAAP) (2013)

2.23 This document was adopted on 21st January 2013 and aims to provide a consistant strategic

framework for the redevelopment of the area whilst ‘protecting and enhancing its intrinsic historic

built character.’

2.24 The NCAAP makes direct reference to the site as Policy 34: Former Royal Mail Sorting Office. This

Policy states that any redevelopment of the site shall ‘provide improvements to pedestrian

crossings along Barrack Road and enhance links to the town centre and Racecourse.’ Furthermore

it also comments that a redevelopment must ‘incorporate appropriate vehicular access

arrangements that are sympathetic in their design to the adjacent Barrack Road Conservation

Area.’

2.25 Policy 9 of this document, titled Pedestrian and Cycling Movement Framework comments that

‘residential or commercial developments required to undertake a transport assessment and/or

statement within the central area boundary will, undertake a full audit of walking and cycling in the

vicinity of the proposed site. The audit will consider general non-motorised movement, missing

links and links to other major attractions.’

2.26 Key issues stated within the NCAAP include the need for ‘improvements to increase the present

educational provision within the Central Area.’ and the ‘regeneration of large parts of the central

area including redundant former employment areas.’

2.27 The NCAAP comments that in relation to policy 10 and car parking that ‘multiple use will be

encouraged, for example, office parking by day, leisure, recreation and residential parking by night.’

Given that there is generally an oversupply of parking within the town centre the NCAAP identifies

that properties on the edge of the town centre boundary, will have their private parking provision

set at a maximum of 50% of the standards for the rest of the town.

2.28 The NCAAP also provides guidance on car park design stating that ‘within car parking areas a

clear zone of 6.0 metres is required between opposing parking spaces. This may be reduced to 4.2

metres for 60-degree spaces and 3.6 metres for 45-degree spaces (the latter standard relates to

one way traffic only.)

2.29 The document makes clear that cycle parking should be convenient to use, be secure and in areas

of good surveillance that are well lit. Cycle parking should be provided in prominent sites. The



7

Sheffield stand is stated as the preferred method to provide cycle parking provision. Shelter should

also be provided over the bicycle stands so as to provide cover from the weather.

Northamptonshire Smarter Travel Choices Strategy, October 2012

2.30 The Smarter Travel Choices Strategy is a daughter document of the Northamptonshire

Transportation Plan. It was developed following consultation with the public and stakeholders in

autumn 2012.

2.31 The aim of the Strategy is to use ‘soft’ measures to ‘help people reduce their car use by providing

high quality, accurate and accessible information, while incentivising and enhancing the

alternatives to driving alone’.

2.32 The document states that Travel Plans aim to ‘influence the mode of travel to create mode shift

away from single car occupancy journeys. Travel Plans are subject to annual monitoring and

review for the first five years with monitoring requirement beyond five years agreed as part of the

travel plan.’

2.33 Within this is a policy to secure Travel Plans for all new developments – business, educational or

residential (Smarter Travel Choices Policy 5). It is noted in the Strategy that Workplace Travel

Plans are key to promoting more sustainable active travel choices. They benefit the community

through reducing congestion, and benefit businesses through reduced travel times/costs and

reduced absenteeism. The document also states that a good Workplace Travel Plan can reduce

the number of people driving to work by 15% and in doing so this shall reduce transport related

emissions. At present 37% of transport related emissions come from the journey to work and

travelling as part of work.

2.34 Travel to schools can impact on the surrounding vicinity with localised congestion and perceived

safety concerns with more parents opting to travel by car rather than foot. School Travel Plans

encourage schools to use their own resources to introduce measures to assist cycling and walking

and promotion of safety on the journey to school.

Northamptonshire Walking Strategy (January 2013), Northamptonshire Cycling Strategy (Januray 2013), Northamptonshire Bus Strategy January 2013

2.35 These 3 strategies are all ‘daughter’ documents of the Northamptonshire Transportation Plan. All 3

strategies state that more needs to be done to reduce traffic levels and promote the use of walking,

cycling or the bus when travelling to work, school or for leisure.

2.36 Within the Walking Strategy it states that ‘Walking to school has health, educational and social

development benefits for children; it improves their sense of independence and confidence and

could help tackle the growing problem of childhood obesity as well as combating the congestion of

the school run.’ Furthermore the need to combat parents providing their children with lifts to school

is highlighted by the ‘school run accounting for 17% of traffic in urban areas.’ (DfT)

2.37 The Cycling Strategy highlights how cycling incentives can be included within Travel Plans as

cycling to work and school has the greatest potential to deliver modal shift. These incentives

include ‘mileage allowances, pool bikes, cycle skills training, the cycle to work scheme and a

guaranteed ride home service, for instance if the staff member/pupils bike has been stolen.’

Summary

2.38 In summary, it can be seen that there are a number of current and emerging integrated land use

and transport planning policies and policy guidance documents that support and underpin the



Proposed Development; and encourage travel to / from the Site to be by sustainable travel modes

where possible.

2.39 With regard to the FTP, the key policy objectives to note are:

Provide sustainable transport choices;

Seek to reduce dependency on the private car; and,

Make provision for pedestrian and cycle access.



9

3 Site Assessment

Overview

3.1 This chapter of the STP describes the existing, or `baseline` transport information and existing

conditions around the Site.

3.2 The site assessment is informed by a detailed Site audit undertaken by JMP on Friday 2nd May

2014. The information obtained is also consolidated by desk-based research.

Site Location & Description

3.3 The Site is located at 55 Barrack Road and is approximately 750m to the north of Northampton

town centre. Given the location of the site within close proximity to Northampton town centre, staff

and pupils at the proposed school as well as staff and visitors to the proposed commercial

development shall be able to use a variety of public and active travel modes to reach the site.

Figure 3.1 provides the site context.

Figure 3.1 Site Context Plan

Cycle Route

Bus Stops

Barrack Road (A508)

Proposal Site



3.4 The A508 is a dual carriageway subject to a 30 mph speed limit and runs in a north-south

orientation. Running south from the site it provides access to Northampton Town Centre and

onwards to Junction 15 of the M1, via the A5076 and A5123. To the north the A508 provides

access to the A14 and the town of Market Harborough.

3.5 A traffic enforcement camera is located directly outside the site on the footway adjacent to the

northbound side of the carriageway. A further enforcement camera is located approximately 20m

to the north of the site adjacent to the southbound side of the carriageway.

Public Transport

Bus

3.6 The site is ideally located for bus access with both northbound and southbound bus within 50

metres of the site.

3.7 The northbound bus stop is located to the south of the site. This stop provides a shelter

incorporating Real Time Passenger Information. The southbound bus stop is located between

Leicester Street and Lorne Street opposite the site. This stop is defined by a post and flag

arrangement. A pedestrian refuge is located directly outside the site on the A508 (Barrack Road)

which provides a convenient crossing point for pedestrians accessing the southbound bus stop.

Table 3.1 provides a full summary of all relevant services that serves the Barrack Road stops.

Table 3.1 Bus Frequency

Service number

Route

One – Way Frequency

Weekday (Day)

Weekday (Evening)

Saturday Sunday &

Public Holidays

15 (Stagecoach)

Acre Lane – Kingsthorpe – Town Centre

Every 20 minutes

Last service 20:19

Every 20 minutes

Every 30 minutes

16 (Stagecoach)

Ecton Brook – Town Centre –

Holly Lodge Drive

Every 20 minutes

Every 20 minutes

Every 20 minutes

Every 20 minutes

17 (Stagecoach)

Ecton Brook – Town Centre –

Holly Lodge Drive

Every 20 minutes

None None None

21 (Unobus) University –

Town Centre – Rectory Farm

Every 15 minutes

Last service 19:07

Every 15 minutes

None

60 (Centrebus)

Northampton - Guilsborough

Approximately every 2 hours

Last service 17:45


None

X77/77 (Stagecoach)

Milton Keynes – Northampton

Approximately every hour

Last service 18:41

Approximately every hour




11

3.8 Review of the bus services identifies that six services stop on Barrack Road. Of these six four run

on a weekday frequency of at least one bus every 20 minutes. All services stop at Northgate Bus

Station with three services providing access to the east of the town. Whilst no direct bus services

run from Barrack Road to the west of the town services are available from the bus station.

Rail

3.9 The closest railway station to the site is approximately 1.2km to the south west. Northampton

Railway Station is located on the Northampton loop of the West Coast Mainline. The station is

operated by London Midland. Approximately 3 trains per hour, are provided southbound to London

Euston and approximately 3 trains per hour are provided towards Birmingham New Street. These

services are provided on weekdays Saturday and Sunday.

Pedestrian Access

3.10 Approximately 75m to the north of the site a controlled pedestrian crossing provides a pedestrian

route between Adelaide Street and the pedestrian entrance to The Racecourse park area.

3.11 To the north of the site footways are approximately 3m wide on the west side of the A508, Barrack

Road and approximately 1.5-2m wide on the east side.

3.12 Footways are provided along both sides of Adelaide Street and Hester Street allowing pedestrian

access from the west side of Barrack Road to the residential areas located to the north-west of the

site.

3.13 A footpath is provided adjacent to the existing site access to the north of the site, on the west side

of Barrack Road giving access to Alliston Gardens and the Semilong residential area to the north-

west of the site. This route can also be used for pedestrian access to the residential areas to the

south-west of the site.

3.14 A pedestrian crossing is located at the Barrack Road, St Georges Avenue signalised junction

approximately 300m to the north of the site. Footways are provided on both sides of St Georges

Avenue allowing further access to the footpath network across The Racecourse park area.

3.15 Pedestrian access to the east of the site is provided by a pedestrian refuge island directly outside

the site. This gives pedestrian access to the residential area around Leicester Street, access to

The Racehorse park area at the east end of Leicester Street and also the residential areas within

the vicinity of Louise Road, Lorne Road and Bailiff Street.

3.16 Louise Road and Lorne Road are terraced streets located in a controlled parking area. Footways

run along both sides of these streets, the width of these footways is approximately 1.5m. Both

roads provide access to The Racecourse park area via Bailiff Street and the residential area

beyond

3.17 To the south of the site footways are provided along both sides of Barrack Road. The widths of

these footways range between approximately 2 and 3 metres up to the Regents Square junction.

Each arm of the Regents Square junction provides a pedestrian crossing

3.18 Footways are located along both sides of the A508 and provide pedestrians with easy access to

the town centre and residential areas of Semilong and Queens Park. Footways also run along Mill

Road and St George’s Street to the west and south of the site.



3.19 The footway and pedestrian crossing facilities provide connection to the wider town including the

town centre and the residential areas of the town.

Cycle Access

3.20 A local cycle route is available less than 100m to the east of the site. This cycle route runs in a

north-south orientation providing access towards the town centre for residents living within

Kingsthorpe and also the Moulton Park Industrial Estate. The cycle route terminates in the town

centre at the junction of Bailiff Street and Campbell Square.

Parking

3.21 No parking is permitted along the northbound side of Barrack Road within the vicinity of the site;

this is defined by way of double yellow lines. Loading is restricted and not permitted between

08:00-09:30 and 16:30-18:00.

3.22 Along the southbound side of Barrack Road there are sporadic parking bays, each of which can

accommodate approximately one or two vehicles. Parking is permitted within these bays for one

hour only Monday to Saturday between 09:30 and 18:00 with no return within 1 hour.

3.23 On Leicester Street directly to the east of the site there is a stretch of single-yellow lines where

parking and loading is not permitted between 08:00 and 09:30. During the rest of the day there are

no restrictions on parking and loading.

3.24 Louise Road opposite the site provides a mixture of Residential Permit Parking only and 2 hours

unrestricted parking between 08:00-18:00 Monday to Saturday (no return within an hour). This area

is classified as Residential Parking Zone E.

3.25 Unrestricted parking is available to the north west of the site on Semilong Road, Lower Adelaide

Street and Northcote Street.

3.26 Lorne Road and Louise Road both have restrictions for HGVs. 7.5 tonne vehicles and above are

not permitted between the hours of midnight to 07:00 or 20:00 Monday to Friday or Saturday or

Sunday at any time.



13

4 Proposed Development

Site Application

4.1 The main element of the scheme is the development of a 10FE (1500 pupil) secondary school, 300

space sixth form centre and 2 FE (420 pupil) primary school. In addition the scheme development

includes:

175 sq.m nursery.

165 sq.m cafe.

1,300 sq.m. gym.

2 x 1 bed apartments and 5 x 2 beds apartments.

4.2 A 128 space car park is to be provided on site which includes 12 spaces for disabled users. The

layout of the proposed site is identified on the plans provided at Appendix A.

4.3 The precise staff requirements for the site is not yet known however it is forecast that 124 full time

and 146 part time staff, equating to 197 full time equivalent staff, will be employed across all site

uses.

Parking Provision

Car Parking

4.4 A car park for the site is to be provided to the rear of the site on the lower ground floor of the main

building. The parking provision is to be split across the respective land uses as follows:

Primary School / Secondary School / Sixth Form – 86 spaces.

Nursery – 2 spaces.

Gym – 13 spaces.

Cafe – 1 space.

Apartments – 3 spaces.

Provision for disabled users – 12 spaces.

Dedicated school drop off / pickup spaces – 10 spaces.

4.5 The parking provision has been calculated based on the central area parking standards identified in

the Northampton Central Area Action Plan (NCAAP). This identifies that ‘within the edge of the

town centre boundary as defined on the ‘proposals map’ private parking provision will be at a

maximum of 50% of the standards.’ Consideration has also been given to the expected parking

demand of the development.

4.6 Consideration of demand is a key component in determining the relevant provision when set

against the requirement to deliver sustainable developments particularly in Town Centre locations.

The key focus of the parking review has been to ensure adequate parking provision for school /

sixth form staff along with staff and patrons of the gym.

4.7 A total of 86 spaces are to be allocated to the school. An additional 10 spaces are to be provided

as dedicated drop off / pick up spaces for the schools with these most likely to located along the



western side of the car park. These spaces will be kept clear for use by parents dropping off or

picking up pupils at the start and the end of the school day.

4.8 The drop off / pick up spaces can be made available for other uses outside of the school day with

use by the gym during late afternoon and evening periods most likely.

4.9 An additional school drop off / pickup area is to be located along the southern side of the car park.

This area is sufficient to accommodate approximately 8 vehicles. In total the drop off spaces and

drop off area will, combined, provide sufficient space to accommodate 18 vehicles.

4.10 The car park includes designated walk ways in order to minimise conflict between vehicles, pupils,

staff and parents and it is envisaged that school teachers will assist in managing the operation of

the car park during the start and end of the school day.

4.11 It is expected that a parking management plan will be complied and implemented ahead of the site

opening so as to ensure efficient and equitable operation of the car park and so as to keep the drop

off / pickup area clear during the AM and school PM Peaks.

Cycle Parking

4.12 The scheme proposals are to provide the following level of cycle parking provision:

Primary School – 30 spaces

Secondary / Sixth Form – 200 spaces

Other Staff / Visitor (located in car park area) – 22 spaces

Residential – 10 spaces

Other Visitor (located at the front of the site) – 6 spaces.

4.13 The other visitor spaces will be provided on the plaza at the front of the site. A total of 200 school

pupil / staff cycle parking will be provided in a secure location along the northern boundary of the

site as shown on the site layout plan provided at Appendix A. With the exception of the residential

parking all other cycle parking will be provided within the secure car park area. Residential cycle

parking is to be provided on level one of the new development with this accessible by both lift and

stairs.

4.14 Whilst it is acknowledged that the school provision is below the preferred county standard it is

considered a positive provision to support the aims of the Travel Plan when the development is first

opened in 2016. It is accepted that future provision may need to be made available and this will be

provided should mode share surveys, undertaken as part of a Travel Plan for the site, identify the

demand for cycle parking is likely to exceed the amount provided.

Site Accessibility

4.15 It is expected that the majority of primary school children will live within two miles of the school.

This is based on evidence complied by Northamptonshire County Council for the five primary

schools that are located closest to the proposal site; the five schools are Barry Primary, Castle

Academy, Spring Lane, Stimpson Avenue and Vernon terrace. A copy of the analysis is provided at

Appendix E

4.16 The review completed identifies that for the forecast September 2014 pupil intake three of the

schools will see over 90% of the pupil intake drawn from the ward within which the school is



15

located. Of the two other schools a total of 87% and 83% is to be drawn from the same ward,

overall this equates to an average of 89%. The review also identifies than an average of no more

than 5% of pupils will live beyond a two mile catchment of the school.

4.17 It is expected that the majority of the secondary school intake will be drawn from the new primary

school and the existing five that are in close proximity to the school such that many of the

catchment for the secondary school will be similar to the primary school.

4.18 It is forecast that the proposed primary school will have similar catchment characteristics to the

nearby primary schools and as such the majority of pupils will be draw from the Semillon and

Castle Wards. The review of the pedestrian infrastructure provided in Section 3 highlights that this

is of a good standard when considering routes from the proposal site to residential areas within the

Semilong and Castle wards. With the introduction of a new pedestrian crossing as part of the new

Barrack Road / Leicester Street / Site Access junction the pedestrian network is considered

appropriate for those seeking to access the site.

4.19 It is acknowledged that some secondary pupils will be drawn from a larger catchment than a 2 mile

radius and are therefore unlikely to walk to the school. Review of the bus services summarised in

Section 3, identifies that regular bus services run from the Barrack Road stops providing

connection to the north and east of the town. These services also connect the site to the bus

station with services available to the west and south of the town. It is considered that these

services provide good public transport links for secondary school pupils travelling from beyond a 2

mile radius.



5 Aims, Objectives & Targets

General

5.1 This section of the FTP sets out the aims, objectives and targets for the Site, which will be

incorporated into future iterations of the FTP.

5.2 The aims and objectives aim to link into Strategic Policy 3 of the NTP which states that:

‘We will ensure that all new developments are well connected by public transport and walking,

cycling and motor vehicles routes, to the existing transport network or one that can be reasonable

expected to be created – this will allow ease of movement between the development and existing

built up areas and provide access to employment and key services.’

Aim

5.3 The aim of this FTP is to create a more sustainable, community driven environment for all Site

users; and to encourage pupils, staff, residents and visitors to adopt healthy, sustainable lifestyle

and travel choices in order to reduce reliance on single occupancy vehicle trips.

Objectives

5.4 Objectives help to give the FTP direction and provide a clear focus.

5.5 The specific objectives that focus the FTP are:

1. To raise awareness of sustainable, and in particular ‘active’ healthy modes of travel

(specifically walking and cycling) to all Site users, including pupils, staff, residents and visitors,

2. To reduce the amount of single occupancy car trips to the Site;

3. To reduce the amount of single occupancy car trips to and from the Site; and

4. To encourage good urban design that increases the permeability and vitality of the Site in order

to improve the environment for walking and cycling.

Targets

5.6 Outline targets have been set for each land use in the land use specific sections (Sections 6 – 8).

These are informed by the modal splits taken from the Transport Assessment for this Site.

Expected trip rates for each land use have been prepared through analysis of the TRICS database

and targets have subsequently been set.

5.7 These targets will be revised and agreed with NCC following baseline travel surveys at the Site.

Baseline surveys are to be conducted within three months of occupation.

5.8 Targets are measurable goals by which the progress of the FTP will be assessed. Targets are

essential for monitoring the progress and success of the FTP. Targets should be `SMART` -

Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time-bound.



17

6 Site-Wide Travel Plan Measures

Travel Plan Co-ordinator

Travel Plan Coordinator

6.1 All travel plans are dependent on a nominated individual being allocated the time and resources for

successful implementation. A Site-wide Travel Plan Coordinator (TPC) will be assigned (either a

current member of LGSS Property Services Ltd staff or externally contracted personnel). Given the

multi-land use nature of the Proposed Development, the TPC will be supported by nominated

individuals for each land use.

6.2 NCC Travel Plan Officers will be provided with the contact details of the TPC prior to first

occupation.

6.3 The TPC will act as the day-to-day point of contact for enquiries, helping to support the operation of

services including taking a lead role in the monitoring process.

6.4 It is anticipated that the amount of time that the TPC will spend will vary according to the period of

occupation, the organisation of travel planning activities and monitoring. It is not expected that the

time dedicated will be uniform throughout the life of the TP.

6.5 The provision of ongoing support and management are critical. The provision of information and

guidance to support sustainable lifestyle choices will be an important element of the Proposed

Development.

Travel Plan Steering Group

6.6 A Travel Plan Steering Group will be set up at the Site with representatives from the education,

commercial and residential units.

6.7 The TPC will co-ordinate the operation of this group; however members of the group will also take

responsibility for implementing specific elements of the travel plan as appropriate.

6.8 Management of the occupying organisations will nominate Site steering group members and will be

kept informed of the decisions and concerns of the steering group.

6.9 The Client will be responsible for funding the upfront costs of travel plan measures such as

providing cycle parking. Following this initial kick-start period the management of each occupying

organisation will be responsible for funding and implementing ongoing travel planning measures.

6.10 The Steering Group will ensure that all Site users` travel interests and issues are represented

equally.

6.11 The TPC will be responsible for co-ordinating this group upon full Site occupation.

NCC Travel Plan Officer

6.12 NCC has an important role in supporting the TP, due to its direct interest in managing the

surrounding local transport network.

6.13 The TPC will liaise with the NCC Travel Plan officer on local transport / highways matters. It is

envisaged that NCC will be a useful source of information regarding any town / borough-wide

transport measures / events.



6.14 The NCC Travel Plan officer will also be invited to any events / steering group meetings if deemed

appropriate.

TP Launch Event

6.15 The TPC will arrange a TP Launch Event after the Site is fully-occupied.

6.16 A launch event is an excellent way for pupils, staff and site users to find out about and engage with

the TP.

6.17 Local cycle organisations and bike shops should also be present.

6.18 When planning the launch event, seasonal issues should be considered, as a push on walking and

cycling will always be better received in warmer months.

Car Share Strategy

6.19 Given the number of people that the site will accommodate there is scope to encourage car sharing

amongst pupils and also amongst staff of all the on-site uses. The TPC will undertake early review

of all staff locations to determine where there may be opportunity to connect staff to one another

where they travel from similar locations and where shift patterns allow for car sharing.

6.20 The TPC will also promote on-line car sharing databases such as mytravelshare.org in order to

provide opportunity for car sharing between site staff and others who travel to / from central

Northampton.

Site-Wide Public Realm

6.21 To ensure that the Proposed Development can be considered to be sustainable it is critical that

sustainable transport principles are incorporated into the development strategy from the outset.

6.22 The Proposed Development will therefore benefit from an attractive, well-lit, and high quality public

realm around the Site in order to encourage walking and cycling trips both during the day and at

night.

6.23 Good transport infrastructure provides the foundation on which the remainder of the development is

built. In addition to the provision of an efficient public transport network, good cycle routes and

pedestrian connectivity around the Site are paramount to encourage walking and cycling

throughout the Site and to nearby services and amenities.



19

7 Education Travel Plan Targets & Measures

Context

7.1 It is proposed that the following educational uses will be provided at the Site;


300 place Sixth Form Centre, and a

2FE (420 pupil) Primary School,

7.2 In preparation of the FTP, JMP has requested and adhered to guidance set out in the NCC School

Travel Plan Template for Education Establishments. A copy of this has been included in Appendix

B for reference.

7.3 The objective of the FTP correlates with the following statement, as outlined in NBC`s School

Travel Plan template;

“To demonstrate the commitment of the School to reducing the impact of travel to and

from the school site on the environment, by encouraging those who have to travel to

do so in a more sustainable way”

7.4 This section of the FTP examines likely travel patterns at the schools, along with measures which

aim to increase sustainable travel.

Travel Patterns & Targets

7.5 As part of the Transport Assessment multi-modal TRICS assessment has been carried out to

determine the likely number of trips associated with the proposed land uses. In formulating the trip

rates, the TRICS database has been interrogated to find comparable sites in terms of location and

car parking provision. Detailed information on sites selected has been included for reference in

Appendix C.

7.6 Utilising this information targets have been set to cover a five year period; however annual

monitoring will ensure that progress and mode split can be monitored on a year-by year basis. A

key point to note when setting targets is that NCC School Travel Plan policy outlines that all new

school developments must include a 20% mode shift from single occupancy vehicles (SOV) over a

period of five years which this FTP adheres to. The school travel plan targets set take account of

this requirement.

Primary School

7.7 Based on the trip rates obtained from the TRICS database, the mode split for the Primary School

aspect of the Proposed Development is shown below in Table 7.1.



Table 7.1 Primary School Travel Mode Split

Mode Percentage

Walk 66%

Car 29%

Public Transport 4%

Cycle 1%

Total 100%

Source: Transport Assessment

7.8 It is predicted that 66% of all daily trips will be undertaken on foot which is encouraging for the FTP.

4% of primary school site users are predicted to travel by public transport and 1% by bicycle. 29%

of trips are currently predicted to be by car (including with passengers). Targets have been set

utilising this mode share with the five year targets identified in Table 7.2

Table 7.2 Target Modal Split

Mode Baseline Mode Split

(Year 1)

Interim Mode Split

(Year 3)

Target Mode Split

(Year 5)

Walk 66% 68% 70%

Car 29% 25% 23%

Public Transport

4% 4% 4%

Cycle 1% 3% 3%

TOTAL 100% 100% 100%

Secondary School and Sixth Form

7.9 Based on the trip rates obtained from the TRICS database, the mode split for the Secondary

School aspect of the Proposed Development is shown below in Table 7.3.

Table 7.3 Secondary School Travel Mode Split

Mode Percentage

Walk 57%

Car 19%

Public Transport 10%

Cycle 14%

Total 100%


7.10 It is noted that the mode split is significantly different to the Primary School modal split, with a

greater emphasis on independent travel due to the age of pupils at the Secondary School.

7.11 It is predicted that a total of 71% of trips will be made by active forms of transport, comprising 57%

undertaken on foot and 14% by bicycle. 10% of trips are currently predicted to be by public

transport and 19% by car (including with passengers). Targets have been set utilising this mode

share with the five year targets identified in Table 7.4.



21

Table 7.4 Target Secondary School and Sixth Form Modal Split


(Year 1)

Interim Mode Split

(Year 3)

Target Mode Split

(Year 5)

Walk 57% 58% 60%

Car 19% 17% 15%

Public Transport

10% 10% 10%

Cycle 14% 15% 15%

TOTAL 100% 100% 100%

7.12 The suggested school targets represent what are considered to be an ambitious but achievable

increase in sustainable travel as a result of the introduction of the TP and the proposed measures.

The TP measures summarised below aim to establish ways in which sustainable travel patterns

can be embedded at the site from initial occupation.

Delivering the Travel Plan

Primary and Secondary School Travel Plan Co-ordinator

7.13 The STP will be managed and monitored by a School Travel Plan Coordinator (TPC) at each

School, who will have overall responsibility for the STP and for ensuring that the delivery of the

proposed measures, initiatives and monitoring are completed.

7.14 The Schools will provide details of both TPCs to NCC upon occupation.

School Sustainable Travel Website

7.15 It is anticipated that the School will have a website. A specific sustainable transport page will be set

up so that staff, pupils and parents can access information easily. The webpage will also enable

information to be updated on a regular basis, for example links to public transport timetables which

may assist in increasing this mode – particularly for staff.

7.16 The TPC with the help of I.T. staff will be responsible for this.

Travel Information upon Enrolment – Welcome Packs

7.17 Travel behaviour is embedded in routine and therefore the FTP provides a unique opportunity to

encourage people to travel more sustainably as moving to a new school will require new travel

patterns. It will be easier to influence the travel decisions of new parents and pupils, particularly if

new parents are given information and facilities upon moving to the School, this will encourage

more positive travel choices to be formulated from day one.

7.18 A Travel Welcome Pack will be sent to all new parents, staff and pupils before term starts. The

Welcome Pack will include site specific travel information as outlined in the measures below,

information on cycle / scooter storage and a link to the school sustainable travel website.

Showers and Lockers

7.19 Separate showers and lockers for staff and pupils will be available on site. This is likely to prove

particularly beneficial to those who choose to cycle.



Cycle Parking

7.20 As part of the Proposed Development 230 cycle parking spaces are to be provided for use by the

school. Cycle parking will be covered and secure.

7.21 The TPCs will monitor usage and ensure that more parking is provided should demand exceed

supply.

Cycle Maps

7.22 NCC have produced a concise cycle map (which also shows walking routes) and this has been

included in Appendix D for reference.

7.23 This map will be made available to all Site users and a link will be provided on the webpage.

Road Safety

7.24 NCC Road Safety Team have developed a presentation called `2 Fast 2 Soon`. The presentation

is aimed at 16 to 18 year olds in sixth forms and colleges who are already driving or will be soon.

7.25 The presentation is split into two parts. The first part is a DVD which shows a reconstruction of a

collision involving young drivers. The second part is an interactive presentation done by serving

Emergency Service officers. The presentation looks at:

Peer pressure

Mobile phone use

Speed

Seat belts

Drinking and driving

7.26 The Road Safety Team ([email protected]) will present this to the School free of charge

and this will be organised by the Secondary School TPC upon school occupation.

Bikeability

7.27 Bikeability is a national programme for cycle training in England and Wales. It is based on the

National Standard for Cycle Training.

7.28 There are three Bikeability levels. Level 1 Bikeability lessons are aimed at Key Stage 1 pupils

(Year 3 and 4) once they have learnt to ride a bike, with 10-11 year olds progressing to Level 2 and

then Level 3 at secondary school.

7.29 Certificates and badges for each level are awarded to children who successfully complete each

course and children are encouraged and inspired to achieve all three levels.

7.30 Bikeability was developed by more than 20 professional organisations and is supported by cross-

Government departments including the Department for Transport, Department of Health and

Department for Education.

7.31 The TPCs will arrange for Bikeability delivery at the School through contacting the Sustainable

Transport Team at NCC.

mailto:[email protected]



23

Staff Tax Free Bike Scheme

7.32 Purchasing a bike through the Government Tax Free Cycle Scheme allows employees to purchase

a bike and equipment and pay for it via a gross salary sacrifice over a set period allowing

employees to save on tax and National Insurance.

7.33 The TPCs will implement this scheme for staff at the School in order to encourage cycling.

Bike Week

7.34 Each school will participate in the annual Bike to School week. This will be organised by the TPCs

and fully supported by the schools. Events such as this aim to engage pupils and raise awareness

of the potential to cycle to and from school.

Walk to School Week

7.35 The Walk to School Week scheme will be promoted by the School via assemblies, the school

website and newsletters send out to parents. Walk to School Week takes place in May and

encourages pupils to walk (all or part of the way) to School. Events surrounding this will be

organised by the TPCs.

Walk Once a Week

7.36 Walk Once a Week is a scheme promoted by Living Streets will also be promoted at the School

upon occupation by the TPCs. The scheme encourages children to walk to school at least once a

week, and in return they earn a collectable pin badge every month.

School Curriculum

7.37 The most effective School Travel Plans are those which are integrated into the school curriculum in

order to maintain pupil`s interest and create a broader knowledge of the benefits of the travel plan.

The TPCs will investigate ways that the STP can be coordinated with the school curriculum, such

as the schools Bullying Policy (with reference to the journey to and from school), along with

environmental and health policies in order to ingrain the travel plan into broader school activities.

Measures for Reducing Reliance on the Private Car

Car Parking Management

7.38 The School will provide a parking policy and management note to all staff, which will outline that no

further parking spaces will be provided at the Site, and this will be made available on the website.

This will include a policy to be issued to parents explaining the proposed drop off / collection

procedure.

Summary

7.39 Identified above are various measures to support the aims and objectives of the FTP. It is

considered that, provided the various messages identified above are implemented, walking, cycling

and public transport will be encouraged at the School.



8 Commercial Travel Plan Targets & Measures

Commercial Space

8.1 The Proposed Development has a number of commercial land uses which are comprised of the

following:

175sqm Nursery.

165sqm Cafe.

1,300sqm Gym.

8.2 The cafe located on the ground floor of the property is not envisioned as being a trip attractor in its

own right consequently vehicular TRICS assessment has not been undertaken for the cafe.

Travel Patterns & Targets

8.3 As part of the Transport Assessment multi-modal TRICS assessment has been carried out to

determine the likely number of trips associated with the proposed land uses. In formulating the trip

rates, the TRICS database has been interrogated to find comparable sites in terms of location and

car parking provision. Detailed information on sites selected has been included for reference in

Appendix C.

8.4 Utilising this information targets have been set to cover a five year period; however annual

monitoring will ensure that progress and mode split can be monitored on a year-by year basis. The

suggested targets represent what are considered to be an ambitious but achievable increase in

sustainable travel as a result of the introduction of the TP and the proposed measures. The TP

measures summarised below aim to establish ways in which sustainable travel patterns can be

embedded at the site from initial occupation.

Nursery

8.5 Based on the trip rates obtained from the TRICS database, the mode split for the School aspect of

the Proposed Development is taken from the Transport Assessment for the Site and shown below

in Table 8.1.

Table 8.1 Nursery Travel Mode Split

Mode Percentage

Walk 34%

Car (including with passengers) 64%

Public Transport 2%

Cycle 0%

Total 100%


8.6 It is predicted that 34% of all daily trips will be undertaken on foot. 64% of Nursery site users are

predicted to travel by car (including with passengers). 2 % are predicted to travel by public

transport and 0% by bicycle.

Targets

8.7 Targets are shown below in Table 8.2



25

Table 8.2 Target Nursery Modal Split


(Year 1)

Interim Mode Split

(Year 3)

Target Mode Split

(Year 5)

Walk 34% 35% 38%

Car 64% 60% 55%

Bus 2% 4% 5%

Cycle 0% 1% 2%

TOTAL 100% 100% 100%


Car Parking

8.8 The Nursery will have a total of two car parking spaces, and these shall be allocated solely to staff

at the nursery. Given the excellent transport links to the site this level of parking is deemed

acceptable.

Nursery Measures

Travel Plan Steering Group Member

8.9 Upon occupation, the Nursery will elect a FTP representative to carry out measures outlined below,

and also to sit on the Site-wide FTP Steering Group.

Website

8.10 The Nursery will have its own website. The nominated transport representative will encourage

management to include ‘how to get here’ information by sustainable modes on the website (and on

communal notice-boards around the Nursery).

Cycle Information

8.11 Where possible, staff will be encouraged to cycle. Staff will be informed of the location of cycle

parking provision surrounding the Site.




8.14 Maps will be located at the reception desk for reference as needed.

Showers/Lockers

8.15 The Nursery will offer gender segregated shower rooms and locker facilities which enable cyclists

to store additional equipment such as helmets and clothing as required.

Cycle to Work Scheme

8.16 The Nursery will investigate the provision of the Cycle to Work scheme for staff. The Cycle to Work

scheme is a tax free initiative that enables employees to get a cycle tax-free, saving approximately

half the cost on average. An initial payment is made for the cycle with the balance deducted directly

from employees via salary sacrifice. At the end of the period, the employee pays a market value

payment to make the cycle theirs.



Public Transport Season Ticket Loan

8.17 Subject to agreement, management will offer an interest-free season ticket loan to staff, who will

repay the loan back via salary sacrifice over the lifetime of their season ticket.

Recruitment

8.18 Where possible, the Nursery will be encouraged to recruit staff from the local community to work at

the Site. Given the convenience and proximity, these employees are more likely to walk, cycle or

use public transport to attend the Site.

Gym

8.19 Based on the trip rates obtained from the TRICS database, the mode split for the Gym aspect of

the Proposed Development is shown below in Table 8.3.

Table 8.3 Gym Travel Mode Split

Mode Percentage

Walk 12%

Car 85%

Public Transport 0.5%

Cycle 2.5%

Total 100%


8.20 It is predicted that 12% of all daily trips will be undertaken on foot. 0.4% of Gym site users are

predicted to travel by public transport and 2.5% by bicycle. 85% of trips are currently predicted to

be by car (including with passengers).

8.21 Targets are shown below in Table 8.4.

Table 8.4 Target Modal Split


(Year 1)

Interim Mode Split

(Year 3)

Target Mode Split

(Year 5)

Walk 12% 14% 14%

Car 85% 82% 80%

Public Transport

0.5% 1% 2%

Cycle 2.5% 3% 4%

TOTAL 100% 100% 100%

Gym Measures

Travel Plan Steering Group Member

8.22 Upon occupation, the Gym will elect a FTP representative to carry out measures outlined below,

and also to sit on the Site-wide FTP Steering Group.



27

Cycle Information

8.23 Where possible, staff and gym users will be encouraged to cycle, possibly as part of a linked

activity related to their exercise at the Gym. Gym users will be informed of the location of cycle

parking provision surrounding the Site.




8.26 Maps will be located at the reception desk for reference as needed.

Website

8.27 The Gym will have its own website. The nominated transport representative will encourage

management to include ‘how to get here’ information by sustainable modes on the website (and on

communal notice-boards around the Gym).

Showers/Lockers

8.28 The Gym will offer gender segregated shower rooms and locker facilities which enable cyclists to

store additional equipment such as helmets and clothing as required.

8.29 The provision of staff showers and lockers will ensure that active modes of travel including walking

and cycling will be a feasible option for staff members.

Cycle Equipment Discount

8.30 The Gym will look into contacting local cycle equipment retailers, with a view to negotiating a

possible discount for staff and registered gym users on cycle equipment. The application of this

measure is dependent on the agreement of a local cycle retailer.

Cycle Event

8.31 Bike Week is the UK’s biggest mass participation cycling event. Bike Week occurs annually in

June. The Gym will investigate any local events that taking place and promote these to staff and

gym users via communal notice-boards. The Bike Week organisers provide support and inspiration

for cycle event ideas.

Cycle to Work Scheme

8.32 The Gym will investigate the provision of the Cycle to Work scheme for staff. The Cycle to Work

scheme is a tax free initiative that enables employees to get a cycle tax-free, saving approximately

half the cost on average. An initial payment is made for the cycle with the balance deducted directly

from employees via salary sacrifice. At the end of the period, the employee pays a market value

payment to make the cycle theirs.

Public Transport Season Ticket Loan

8.33 Subject to agreement, management will offer an interest-free season ticket loan to staff, who will

repay the loan back via salary sacrifice over the lifetime of their season ticket.

Recruitment

8.34 Where this is appropriate and in line with business needs, the Gym will consider recruiting staff

locally to minimise their impact on the road network and increase the likelihood of staff travelling

to/from the Site, by walking, cycling or public transport.

http://www.bikeweek.org.uk/page.php?id=31



8.35 The Gym will include travel to work information at induction training and inform new staff of the

sustainable ethos of the transport strategy.

Other Marketing

8.36 The gym by its very nature encourages health and fitness. In order to further enforce this the gym

will highlight via notice boards and the website how travelling sustainably to the gym can benefit

the health and wellbeing of their patrons.



29

9 Monitoring Strategy

General

9.1 An important part of the FTP is the continual monitoring and review of its effectiveness. It is

essential that an FTP is not a one-off event, but a continually evolving process.

9.2 Regular monitoring and reviewing will help to gauge progress towards targets and objectives, and,

if necessary, enable the FTP to be refined and adapted in order to improve its progression. As

noted in the previous section the effectiveness of the various measures identified will also be

monitored, and reviewed if necessary, to ensure that the aims and objectives of the FTP are

appropriately supported.

Targets

9.3 The success of the FTP will be determined by whether it succeeds in meeting its stated targets.

The estimated modal split targets have been included in Chapter 5.

Monitoring

Survey of Site Travel Patterns

9.4 A Site wide travel survey will be completed within three months of site occupation with the findings

of the survey used to refine, if necessary, the travel plan targets previously set.

9.5 The Site will carry out an annual travel survey which will cover the Primary and Secondary School,

Sixth Form Centre, Nursery and Gym uses.

9.6 After three years, the FTP will be rewritten in order to update the targets and reflect on progress

that has been made. This is in line with current Department for Transport guidance.

9.7 Results will be reported to NCCs Sustainable Transport Officer annually as per NCC`s STP

guidance. This will be arranged by the TPC.

Long Term Sustainability of the STP

9.8 Upon completion of the FTP, all stakeholders (including the Site TPC, School Governors, the Head

Teachers, travel representatives from the Nursery and Gym) will receive a copy.

9.9 It is recommended that these stakeholders form part of the proposed Travel Committee and this

will ensure that all parties are committed to the development and the actions outlined within the

action plan. Pupils at the School should also be involved in the long-term development of the FTP,

and it is recommended that their input is given via the Travel Committee / School Council.

9.10 Measures, results and updates of the FTP will also be publicised via school newsletters and the

school website in order to maintain parental interest and buy-in.



10 Delivering the Travel Plan

Roles and Responsibilities


10.1 STPs are dependent on a nominated individual being given time and resources for success to

occur. The Travel Plan Co-ordinator (TPC) would be responsible for overseeing and implementing

the various measures outlined in this FTP.

10.2 As noted previously, the Site-wide TPC will be supported by FTP representatives for each land-

use.

Action Plan

10.3 The FTP Implementation Action Plan provides details of the initiatives that form part of this FTP.

Included is the name of those responsible for each action and the date it is due to be implemented.

Table 10.1 Action Plan - Pre Occupation

Activity

When By Whom

Objective Mode Measure Task

Objective 1

All Travel Plan Coordinator

Identify and appoint Site Travel Plan Coordinator to carry forward all tasks within action plan).

Pre Occupation

Developer

Objective 2

All Website

Develop a sustainable travel webpage which is linked to the school`s main website. Include FTP as a link.

Pre

Occupation


Objective 3

Cycle Cycle Parking

230 cycle parking spaces to be introduced for use by school pupils and staff. 42 cycle parking spaces to be installed for other uses.

TPC to monitor cycle/scooter usage and provide more if demand exceeds supply.

Pre

Occupation Developer

Objective 4

All Welcome Pack

TPC to send out sustainable travel details to all new parents and pupils

Pre Occupation

School Travel Plan Co-ordinator



31

Table 10.2 Action Plan - Upon Occupation

Activity

When By Whom


Objective 1

All Steering Group

The TPC will set up a Steering Group with representatives from all land uses.

Upon Occupation

Site Travel Plan Co-ordinator

Objective 2

Cycling Bikeability Introduction of NCC Bikeability schemes.

Upon Occupation


Objective 3

Cycle to Work

Cycling Implement the staff Cycle To Work Scheme

Upon Occupation


Objective

4 Cycling

Launch Event

TPC to organise launch event to cover all land uses

Upon Occupation


Objective 5

All Nursery and Gym

Nursery and Gym to provide cycle parking, tax free cycle scheme, public transport season tickets and shower and locker facilities and transport information on the website. Nursery and Gym will also elect a Travel Representative each.

Upon Occupation

Nursery and Gym Management

Objective 6

Car Car Share

Promote car share opportunities amongst staff highlighting the proximity of staff members to one another and the cost benefit of car sharing.

Upon Occupation


Table 10.3 Action Plan - Post Occupation

Activity

When By Whom


Objective 1

All Site Travel Survey

Distribute the travel survey to all pupils, staff, site users and staff.

Post Occupation


Objective 2

All Newsletter

TPC to provide information on school travel survey results – along with any new measures on regular

Post Occupation




basis in school newsletter

Objective 3

All Steering Group

Steering Group to meet regularly in order to discuss potential traffic and transport issues at the Site.

Biannually Travel Plan Co-ordinator

Objective 4

Walk to Work Week

Bike Week

Walking/

Cycling/

Promote Walk to School Week, Walk once a Week (WoW) week, and Bike Week.

Yearly


Objective 5

All

Road Safety Trainng / Streetsafe

School TPC will arrange road safety education as part of the FTP.

Yearly


Objective 6

All Monitoring

TPC to be responsible for monitoring, consisting of:

Collect data on mode of transport across all site uses (annually). 2. Update the action plan (annually) identifying and incorporating any suitable actions arising from monitoring.

Post Occupation


Objective 8

STP STP Re-write

After three years, the STP will be rewritten in order to update the targets and reflect on progress. The TPC will be responsible for this.

Post Occupation




33

11 Summary & Conclusions

11.1 JMP Consultants Limited has been commissioned by LGSS Property Services Ltd, on behalf of

NCC, to develop a Framework Travel Plan connection with the redevelopment of the former Royal

Mail Sorting Office located at 55 Barrack Road, Northampton, NN1 1AA.

11.2 The proposal is to develop the Site to provide:


300 place Sixth Form Centre,

2FE (420 pupil) primary school,

175sqm Nursery,

165sqm Cafe,

1300sqm Gym

Residential Development of 2 x 1 bed and 5 x 2 bed apartments, and,

A 127 space car park including 12 disabled spaces for staff and visitors to the Site.

11.3 A Framework Travel Plan has been prepared due to the occupation of the Site by multiple land-

uses, and it will aim to mitigate the transport impacts associated with all aspects of the Proposed

Development.

11.4 This FTP has reviewed national and local policies to ensure that the measures and targets

proposed reflect both the aspirations of the developer and also supports NCC’s vision for the area.

11.5 The existing transport conditions in the surrounding area have also been reviewed to establish the

baseline level of access to public transport, pedestrian and cycling facilities.

11.6 There are a number of aims, objectives and targets defined in the FTP which are in line with NCC

goals set out in the Core Strategy and School Travel Plan Guidance.

11.7 The FTP has developed these aims and objectives into site-wide measures and targets for each

land use. The targets generally aim to reduce car travel and encourage and support more

sustainable travel behaviour.

11.8 It is proposed to appoint a site-wide Travel Plan Co-ordinator to manage and monitor the measures

implemented including steering groups and launch events. The role will also include co-ordinating

between the Travel Plan representatives for each land use.

11.9 Car parking spaces are limited on-site, and cycle parking will be provided for all land uses. Cycle to

work schemes and public transport season ticket loans will be made available if considered viable

by the occupier.

11.10 The TP contains a strategy for monitoring and updating the targets and measures to ensure they

are appropriate. It is expected that each element of the Site will be surveyed following occupation

and resurveyed in years 3 and years 5. Monitoring surveys are to align with NCC guidance and will

be the responsibility of the TPC for each land use.

11.11 An annual progress report is to be provided to NCC Travel Planning team.



35

Job No Report No Issue no Report Name


Appendix A

Proposed Site Layout



Appendix B

NCC School Travel Plan Template



Appendix C

TRICS Assessment



Appendix D

NCC Cycle Map

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