Access

Site access can be a complex issue and can relate to several different aspects. Does the site have good access to the local and regional road network? Is it appropriately located with regard to waste arisings? Some sites may offer the potential to consider alternative modes of transport; rail, river and canal.

Appropriate access for visitors and people with disabilities also needs to be considered. This can apply to all parts of the site including offices, operational areas and visitor facilities. It may be necessary to incorporate suitable pavements, door and possibly lift facilities. Access to facilities with a public interface may need careful consideration. For example, civic amenity sites may need to adapt working practices to provide assistance to disabled members of the public.

Internal movements within a site are a critical design consideration. A waste site needs to be easy for vehicles and pedestrians to move around and should be logical. All waste facilities need to allow for the safe manoeuvring of large vehicles and this can be challenging on sites where space is at a premium. The importance of internal vehicle movements is heightened when there is a public interface. With civic amenity sites it is important that the public are provided with clear instructions as to where they can and cannot go. Where possible, separation of public and trade vehicles should be a priority.

Developers for new waste facilities will be required to submit a Design and Access Statement with their planning applications. This should include all aspects of access and movement of vehicles and people within and through the site and onto the public highway. Circular 01/06 (Communities and Local Government): Guidance on Changes to the Development Control System set out government guidance on the purpose of such statements.