This stage in the process involves a review of a client's needs and objectives. Various feasibility studies may be required at this stage to analyse specific site constraints and opportunities. On-site and off-site constraints and opportunities should be identified. The character and setting of a site should also be considered.
Studies may be undertaken in parallel at this stage to evaluate different dimensions of a potential development. Work may include detailed evaluation of the proposed strategy and business case and may also include the evaluation of certain site constraints, for example traffic flows and potential site access arrangements. Such appraisals may also consider related off-site issues such as potential combined heat and power synergies associated with some waste management technologies.
It is important to consider design flexibility at this stage to allow for future changes in waste processing techniques, regulatory reform etc.