Package 3. M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures SUPPORTING TECHNICAL DOCUMENT - November 2011

Transcription

1 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures SUPPORTING TECHNICAL DOCUMENT - November 2011 Package 3 A package of measures focusing on upgrading the M4 between Junctions 24 and 29 to dual 4 lane standard, including a new tunnel bore at Brynglas, to improve the capacity, resilience and safety of travel within the M4 Corridor. Measure 1 (Core): M4 on-line widening to dual 4 lanes Measure 2 (Core): Widen west facing slips at J26 Measure 3 (Core): Removal of east facing slips at J26 Measure 4( Core): Safety improvements to J27 Measure 5 (Core): Close access to motorway at J25 Measure 6: Use of the A465 as an alternative route Measure 7: J23a circulatory improvements Measure 8: J28 improvements Measure 9: High occupancy vehicle lanes Measure 10: Manage speed of traffic Measure 11: Traffic monitoring and queue detection Measure 12: Incident management Measure 13: Event management Measure 14: Encourage use of alternative routes to M4 Measure 15: Poor weather road management Measure 16: Manage HGV traffic Measure 17: Use of ramp metering Measure 18: Additional rail services north of Cardiff Measure 19: Ebbw Vale rail link to Newport Measure 20: Train lengthening Measure 21: Train frequencies Measure 22: Transfer road freight onto rail Measure 23: Bus priority measures on the local network Measure 24: Improve modal interchange Measure 25: Cycle infrastructure improvements Measure 26: Pedestrian infrastructure improvements Measure 27: Electric vehicles and infrastructure Measure 28: Improve route aesthetics Measure 29: Use of noise reducing innovations 30 Key Phase 1 from 2022 Phase 2 from 2026 Phase 3 from 2031 A468 To Cardiff I Gaerdydd Risca A48M 29 Castleton Cas-bach A467 Cwmbran M4 east facing junction Bettws M4 A A4042 Malpas Brynglas Tunnel A48 25a 25 NEWPORT CASNEWYDD Caerleon Caerllion River Usk Newport Docks Dociau Casnewydd M4 River Usk A48 24 A449 To Monmouth I Drefynwy Main South Wales to London Railway Line Prif Reilffordd De Cymru i Lundain Steelworks Access Road Ffordd Fynediad y Gwaith Dur M4 23a Caldicot Level Gwastadeddau Cil-y-coed A48 Magor 23 To Chepstow M48 Second Severn Crossing Toll Booths Man Talu Ail Groesfan Hafren Cardiff Caerdydd 29a Wentlooge Level Severn Estuary Aber Hafren Scale 0 3km

2 Contents Workbook User Guide 2 Key information and Glossary 3 Package Analysis Key information sheet 4 Appraisal Summary Worksheet 5 Appraisal Summary Table 6 Measure Analysis (Core) Measure 1: M4 on-line widening to dual 4 lanes 7 (Core) Measure 2: Widen west facing slips at J26 10 (Core) Measure 3: Removal of east facing slips at J26 13 (Core) Measure 4: Safety improvements to J27 16 (Core) Measure 5: Close access to motorway at J25 19 Measure 6: Use of the A465 as an alternative route 22 Measure 7: J23a circulatory improvements 25 Measure 8: J28 improvements 28 Measure 9: High occupancy vehicle lanes 31 Measure 10: Manage speed of traffic 33 Measure 11: Traffic monitoring and queue detection 35 Measure 12: Incident management 37 Measure 13: Event management 39 Measure 14: Encourage use of alternative routes to M4 41 Measure 15: Poor weather road management 43 Measure 16: Manage HGV traffic 45 Measure 17: Use of ramp metering 47 Measure 18: Additional rail services north of Cardiff 49 Measure 19: Ebbw Vale rail link to Newport 52 Measure 20: Train lengthening 55 Measure 21: Train frequencies 57 Measure 22: Transfer road freight onto rail 59 Measure 23: Bus priority measures on the local network 61 Measure 24: Improve modal interchange 64 Measure 25: Cycle infrastructure improvements 66 Measure 26: Pedestrian infrastructure improvements 69 Measure 27: Electric vehicles and infrastructure 72 Measure 28: Improve route aesthetics 74 Measure 29: Use of noise reducing innovations 76

3 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures Package 3 Workbook User Guide What is this workbook all about? On 27 July 2011 the M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures Programme initiated detailed work with a specially selected Forum of Stakeholders, representing a breadth of interests from the public, private and third sectors in South Wales. Thirty four members of the Stakeholder Forum convened with representatives of Welsh Government and Arup staff to explore over 100 possible solutions, old and new, to safety, capacity and resilience related problems associated with travel in the M4 corridor between Magor and Castleton. Building on the robust exploration of possible solutions facilitated by the Forum, the WG and Arup team have developed four Packages of measures that work together optimally to address the problems of the M4 Corridor, Magor to Castleton. Package development has involved further research into the feasibility and deliverability into selected measures both on a stand-alone basis, and again in the context of the complete package of complementary measures. The resulting four option Packages, plus a Dominimum scenario, are each presented within a dedicated workbook. Each Package offers a core scheme, comprising one or more measures, supported by a number of supplementary traffic management, public transport and sustainable travel measures. This workbook presents one of the four Packages: Package 1: Major new highway capacity infrastructure development Package 1 focuses on the development of a new dual 2 lane all purpose road to the south of Newport. Package 2: Improvements to the Newport Southern Distributor Road (SDR) The core focus of Package 2 is a programme of at-grade junction improvements to the A48 Southern Distributor Road. Package 3: M4 on-line widening The core focus of Package 3 is a programme of on-line widening to 4 lanes in order to deliver major new capacity on the existing M4 route. Package 4: Public transport improvements Package 4 focuses on investment in public transport facilities and services, aimed at reducing reliance on private vehicle use and encouraging modal shift. What will I find in this workbook? Within a workbook you will find a Package of different measures that aim to address issues of capacity, resilience, safety and sustainability associated with transport along the M4 Corridor, Magor to Castleton. A workbook presents the Package in two sections: Package analysis: a high level overview of what the package comprises, its likely impacts and implementation issues, a summary appraisal worksheet, appraisal table and illustrative drawing (if appropriate). Measure analysis: a detailed view of individual measures, contained in the package, their impacts, implementation issues and compatibility. Each is followed by a summary appraisal worksheet, appraisal table and illustrative drawing (if appropriate). How are the packaged measures appraised? Arup has appraised each measure to identify: what it would entail; what impacts it could have on the economy, society and environment, in the context of M4 CEM Programme Aims, and WelTAG criteria; its compatibility with other measures as part of the package; how well it addresses the goals of the programme; and its acceptability, feasibility, deliverability and risks. At this stage, the appraisal of measures is often still high level. In practice this means traffic modelling work and assessment of traffic flow and accident data is undertaken for comparative purposes. Further technical appraisal is required during project delivery following formal public consultation early next year, when a decision is made with respect to strategy implementation. How should I use this workbook? In order to help make the appraisal information easier to understand, each measure is assessed through appraisal tables using a 7-scale colour coding system: Large Positive Impact (+++) Moderate Positive Impact (++) Slight Positive Impact No (or Minimal) Impact Slight Negative Impact (-) Moderate Negative Impact (--) Large Negative Impact (---) The impacts are appraised in terms of the likely effect each measure would have on the M4 Corridor transport conditions, as defined in Programme Goals and WelTAG criteria. You will be asked to offer your views on the merits of the Package presented within this workbook. Therefore we would ask that you read through this workbook to develop a basic understanding of what the Package would help to achieve. Acknowledging that there are four Package Workbooks in total, we wouldn t expect you to develop a comprehensive understanding of every measure presented. Rather, we would suggest that you consider the overall strategy of a Package and raise any issues you may have about its approach, proposed measures or gaps in the evidence base. There will be an opportunity at the workshop to put these forward. Please bring this workbook with you to the workshop on 15 November! This copy is now your property and we would encourage you to make annotations that may prompt any discussion on the day. 2

4 Key information and Glossary Key information sheets A key information sheet is provided at the beginning of this workbook to offer a summary description of the Package. It identifies a number of core measures and supporting measures that comprise the Package. Core measure a measure that is central to the strategic approach developed within the Package to address the issues of capacity, safety and resilience on the M4 corridor. Supporting measure a measure that can be delivered independently, and as part of the Package in support of the core measure(s), to address the wider goals of the M4 CEM Programme. Within the core measures section of the key information sheet, a summary description of the core measures is provided, including details of phasing and capital costs. Within the supporting measures section, a summary description of each supporting measures is provided, including the measures role in the context of the Package. Phasing a measure is often phased, meaning it will be delivered in sections with works and associated costs spread out over a determined construction period. Phasing may make the difference between a scheme being affordable, or not. Each phase is designed to deliver step change benefits to the highway or rail network over time. Capital costs the total upfront investment cost of a scheme. The main components of capital costs may include, but not necessarily be limited to, construction costs, land and property costs and compensation, preparation and administration costs, and on site supervision and testing. A Package diagram presents the individual measures that are subject to detailed appraisal within the measure appraisal summary worksheets and appraisal summary tables. Appraisal summary worksheets An appraisal summary worksheet sets out details of both Packages and Measures, providing an appraisal at a high level to identify the likely impacts on the economy, society and environment. Where possible, as part of the economic impact appraisal a Benefit to Cost Ratio (BCR) is shown. BCR is the ratio of the benefits of a project or proposal, relative to its costs, (both expressed in monetary terms). Core highway measures have been subject to traffic modelling to better understand the comparative impact of a Package. The potential acceptability, deliverability, feasibility and risk of measures is also considered, including compatibility issues. Terms below are sourced from WelTAG guidance: Economic impact this is a description of the impact of a measure on the economy, at a local, regional and/or national level. Economic outcomes against which a measure is appraised include: Access to employment opportunities; Connectivity within Wales and internationally; Efficient, reliable and sustainable movement of people; Efficient, reliable and sustainable movement of freight; Access to visitor attractions. Social impact the impact of a measure on people and communities. Social outcomes against which a measure is appraised include: Access to healthcare; Access to education, training and lifelong learning; Access to shopping and leisure facilities; Is healthy lifestyle encouraged; Safety of travel. Environmental impact the impact of a measure on the environment. Environmental outcomes against which a measure is appraised include: Use of sustainable materials; Contribution to greenhouse gas emissions; Impact on climate change Contribution to air pollution; Impact on the local environment; Impact on heritage; Impact on biodiversity. Appraisal summary tables An appraisal summary table sheet is used to assess both the Package and its Measures against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance (WelTAG) criteria, and the goals of the M4 CEM programme. Assessment is undertaken both qualitatively and using the 7-scale grading of significance (see workbook user guide). WelTAG a system of appraisal that clearly identifies the benefits, costs and impacts of schemes and identifies their contribution to the core objectives for transport. Appraisal criteria are focused on overarching impact areas relevant to Wales and include: Economy Transport Economic Efficiency (TEE) the impact of a proposal on the economic efficiency of the transport system. Economic Activity and Location Impact (EALI) the impact of a proposal on the economy beyond the transport sector. Environment Noise the impact of noise nuisance from transport on local communities. Local Air Quality the impact of exhaust emissions from transport affecting local air quality. Greenhouse Gas Emissions the impact of transport options on climate change. Landscape and townscape the character of a place. Biodiversity impact on ecosystems and habitats. Heritage impact on sites of historic importance. Water environment changes likely to occur to existing water courses. Soils impact on and the condition of the soil of an area. Social Safety freedom from risk of transport accident. Personal security risk to the transport user. Permeability ease of movement by non-motorised modes (also referred to as severance ). Physical fitness contribution to health and wellbeing. Social inclusion the degree to which members of society are able to lead a full life. Equality, Diversity & Human Rights ensuring all citizens can take advantage of transport services. 3

5 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Key Information Sheet Focus of Package 3 Package 3 focuses on the widening of the M4 to deliver major new capacity, complimented by a number of other highway infrastructure improvements, traffic management, public transport and sustainable development solutions that aim to address the problems of capacity, safety and resilience on the M4 Corridor. Core measures The core focus of Package 3 is a programme of on-line widening along the M4 between junctions 24 and 29 to dual 4 lanes in conjunction with junction modifications at Junctions 27, 26 and 25. Phase 1 would involve widening between Junctions 27 and 29 along with safety improvements to the slip roads at Junction 27 by 2022 (at a cost of 95m); Phase 2 would involve widening between Junctions 25 and 27, along with widening of the west facing slip roads and closure of the east facing slip roads at Junction 26 and closure of Junction 25 by 2026 (at a cost of 370m); and Phase 3 would involve widening between 24 and 25 by 2031 (at a cost of 90m). The total capital cost of the core measure to Package 3 over a 15 year expenditure period, is estimated at 555m (Q prices). Supporting measures Whilst Package 3 primarily involves delivering major new road capacity along the existing M4 Corridor, a series of junction enhancements and junction closures would support the delivery of a safer and more resilient M4 Corridor that will primarily serve long distance motorway travel. A number of other highway infrastructure and traffic management measures would help maintain road access to local services and facilities. Better traffic monitoring and management particularly during incidents and events would be implemented. The introduction of high occupancy vehicle lanes along some highway sections would prioritise sustainable private vehicle travel, whilst actively promoting the use of alternative routes to the M4 would help relieve local traffic congestion around Newport. Ramp metering and HGV management could also aid traffic flow control. Investment in public transport improvements would complement the highway infrastructure works in order to encourage less reliance on the private car. A phased programme of rail schemes would see new and improved stations, park and ride/share facilities, and better services. Bus based measures would include upgraded facilities and local bus priority schemes that would aim to reduce the number of local trips travelled on the M4 route. Investments in walking and cycling infrastructure would also be made. In order to meet the future demands of a sustainable highway network, a phased approach to promoting the use of electric vehicles would be coordinated, including investment in electric vehicle infrastructure. Finally, the package would aim to improve travel conditions and reduce the impact of travel on communities by improving the aesthetics of routes through delivering biodiversity benefits; in addition to the use of low noise surfacing, noise barriers and noise proofing of homes along the existing M4 Corridor. 4

6 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Package Appraisal Summary Worksheet Phasing Appraisal Key Scheme opening year Scheme in place for subsequent years Measure Open 2016 Open lane On-line widening Phase 1 A465 alternative route J23A circulatory improvements Widening of west facing slip roads at Junction 26 J27 safety improvements J28 improvements Close access to motorway from J25 Removal of east facing slip roads at J26 HOV lanes Manage speed of traffic Traffic monitoring Incident management Event management Encourage use of alternative routes Poor weather management Manage HGV traffic Use of ramp metering Additional services the north of Cardiff Introduce Ebbw Vale rail link to Newport Train lengthening Train frequencies Road freight onto rail Local bus priority Modal integration Cycle infrastructure Walking infrastructure Electric vehicles Aesthetics Noise reduction AP Open 2026 Phase 2 Open 2031 Phase 3 Economic Impact Package 3 aims to reduce traffic congestion and improve journey time reliability along the M4 corridor through a significant on-line widening programme supplemented by some junction modifications. The M4 route would be prioritised for long distance travel to the benefit of freight travel and journeys to strategic employment centres and urban centres. Traffic management and public transport schemes would aim to improve local traffic flows and benefit local access to the Newport commercial centres. The core measures, constructed in phases, would be expected to deliver a benefit to cost ratio (BCR) of around 1.1, although this could reduce further should cost estimates escalate due to the complexities involved with the tunnelling works and the widening of an operational motorway. This excludes accident benefits and is based on the original M4 traffic forecast assumptions, which would be expected to reduce to be in line with revisions to traffic growth projections on a national level. Social Impact Whilst junction closures may be perceived to threaten accessibility to local communities, facilities and services; a package of other junction enhancements and investment in public transport, walking and cycling facilities aims to benefit local journeys. By prioritising the M4 route for long distance journeys, closure of some junctions will reduce the potential for accidents caused by merging traffic or weaving movements on the approach to junctions. Investment in public transport and traffic management will also aid traffic flows and bring safety improvements. Public transport improvements and investment in non-motorised user facilities aims to benefit social mobility. Environmental Impact Package 3 aims to deliver additional road capacity along the existing M4 and thus limit the impact of development on the environment. In the short to medium term, a positive environmental impact would be achieved through reducing the air and noise pollution effects caused by traffic congestion along the M4 corridor. However, should additional capacity attract additional traffic volumes over the longer term, this benefit would be reduced. In order to address this issue, sustainable travel measures within this Package also aim to encourage modal shift through investment in local public transport services, whilst the introduction of traffic management approaches hope to limit growth in car use. It is envisaged that this Package would also help reduce the longer term impact of travel on the environment through investment in electric vehicle infrastructure and the introduction of biodiversity focused aesthetic improvements. Acceptability, Deliverability, Feasibility and Risk The core on-line widening scheme would provide significant additional road capacity and improve traffic flows along the M4 route, although would offer little improvement in terms of network resilience. Its phased construction sequence would enhance the deliverability of the programme of works required, although at a significant cost. Whilst significant works would be required to deliver the core scheme, it would be feasible. It is anticipated that the widening works and associated junction modifications would require traffic management on the M4 with a 50mph speed limit imposed for 30 months for each of the 3 phases, resulting in 7.5 years of disruption overall. Disruption to traffic along the M4 during construction could attract community opposition, although the environmental impact of on-line works would be lower compared to offline development. Overall, Package 3 will also deliver a number of short and medium term benefits through the implementation of comprehensive junction enhancements, traffic management measures and public transport projects. It is considered that this Package would achieve its purpose in addressing the problems of the M4 corridor between Magor and Castleton. Compatibility of Measures: Summary of Key Issues The core M4 on-line widening, junction improvement and junction closure measures would see the problems associated with existing traffic congestion within the Corridor addressed in a phased approach. As such, in the short to medium term the core measures would be dependent on M4 junction enhancements, traffic management and public transport improvements to help relieve traffic congestion and improve local accessibility within Newport. The core measures of the Package would reduce the traffic congestion problems on the M4 if delivered in isolation, but they rely upon the supporting schemes to help holistically tackle the goals of the M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures Programme. Overall, the measures proposed within this Package complement each other and aim to address the problems of the M4 in a phased and integrated approach. 5

7 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Package Appraisal Summary Table Appraisal against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance Criteria Appraisal against Programme Goals (Transport Planning Objectives) Criteria Assessment Significance Economy Transport Economic Efficiency (TEE) There will be improved journey time savings and journey time reliability. Phased delivery of the core measure will spread the investment costs over a 15 year period. Significant disruption to motorway users would be Economic Activity and Location Impact (EALI) Environment Noise Local Air Quality Greenhouse Gas Emissions Landscape and townscape Biodiversity Heritage Water environment Soils Social Transport safety expected throughout the construction period. This Package will have a positive impact on the local and regional economy, through enhancing accessibility to employment centres along the M4 corridor. In addition, improving conditions on the M4 for long distance travel will benefit the strategic movement of people and freight, although significant disruption to motorway users would be expected throughout the construction period. Reduced congestion would alleviate noise pollution along the M4, which is in close vicinity to residential properties. To offset potential noise pollution caused by traffic increases in the longer term, this package promotes lower noise intense forms of transport; and also promotes the use of noise reducing solutions. Reduced congestion would alleviate air pollution along the M4, which should lead to less intensity of air pollution in the Air Quality Management Areas. However, more sustainable forms of transport are promoted, which will help to improve local air quality particularly in the longer term. This Package will help to alleviate congestion, which should have some benefit in reducing vehicle emissions. This package also promotes more sustainable forms of transport, to help reduce emissions. This package would create adverse impacts on sensitive character areas including Tredegar House and Beechwood Park. There would also be adverse impact on areas of rural landscape. The visual impact of the motorway and the impact on properties through the built up area of Newport would be substantially increased. Package 3 would entail works and potential increased traffic volumes which may adversely affect the River Usk Special Area of Conservation. In addition the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal (Junctions 26-27) and the Allt Yr Yn Local Nature Reserve (Junctions 26-27) may contain protected species. Package 3 would run close to a number of sites of historic and archaeological interest. On-line widening may affect Scheduled Ancient Monuments and a number of listed buildings. Construction could have an adverse impact on the local water environment. There would be opportunities to improve existing drainage and water quality, which would have slight beneficial impacts. Package 3 would impact on agricultural land which would adjoin the rural sections of the route. Works to the Brynglas tunnels could face major geotechnical difficulties resulting in landslip. Package 3 will help improve road safety by reducing congestion levels; improving traffic flows; enhancing (++) motorway junctions; and improving traffic management and response to incidents/events. Personal security Investment in walking and cycling facilities would improve safety for non-motorised users. Permeability Package 3 includes investments in walking and cycling to assist permeability, whilst conditions are expected to improve slightly in Newport through reduced levels of traffic accessing local services to/from the M4 motorway. Physical fitness Improvements to walking and cycling facilities will encourage healthier lifestyles. Social inclusion Local rail and bus services will be improved, benefiting those unable to afford, or without access to a vehicle. Equality, Diversity Package 3 would aim to meet the needs of all groups of people when progressed to project stage. & Human Rights Acceptability, Feasibility, Deliverability and Risk Public acceptability: Improving the M4 as a long distance east-west route will attract support from businesses and safety groups. However, there may be some opposition from the public towards the likely significant disruption caused during construction of the core on-line widening scheme. Acceptability to other stakeholders: The Package would help address many of the problems on the M4 using the existing highway infrastructure. This is likely to attract political support, although significant disruption caused by construction works is likely, which may not be acceptable to other stakeholders. Technical and operational feasibility: The core on-line widening scheme will involve complex works that will have significant economic, social and environmental impacts along some sections of the M4 corridor. However, the measures are technically feasible. Financial affordability and deliverability: The phased approach to delivery of the core scheme would mean it is more affordable over a 15 year period. Risks: The deliverability of Package 3 would require political commitment to the core scheme, which is likely to have significant adverse economic, social and environmental impacts during construction. (++) (---) (--) (--) (---) Qualitative assessment Significant on-line widening of the existing M4 route to dual 4 lanes will make it easier and safer to travel east-west in South Wales and beyond, whilst junction enhancements and investments in public transport will improve accessibility to local services, communities and commercial centres. Ultimately, Package 3 will help improve traffic flows through highway and traffic management improvements thus improving journey times and journey time reliability, although there is likely to be significant disruption along the M4 corridor during construction works. Investment in more sustainable modes of transport including bus, rail, electric vehicles, walking and cycling will improve choice and benefit environmental and social conditions in the longer term. 1 Safer, easier and more reliable travel East-West in South Wales. (+++) Improved transport connections within Wales and to England, the Republic (++) 2 of Ireland and the rest of Europe on all modes on the international transport network. 3 More effective and integrated use of alternatives to the M4, including other parts of the transport network and other modes of transport for local and longer distance journeys around Newport. 4 Best possible use of the existing M4, local road network and other transport (++) networks. 5 More reliable journey times along the M4 corridor. (+++) Increased level of choice for all people making journeys within the transport 6 corridor by all modes between Magor and Castleton, commensurate with demand for alternatives. 7 Improved safety on the M4 Corridor between Magor and Castleton. (++) 8 Improved air quality in areas next to the M4 around Newport. 9 Reduced disturbance to people from high noise levels, from all transport modes and traffic within the M4 corridor. 10 Reduced greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle and/or person kilometre. 11 Improved travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. (++) 12 An M4 attractive for longer distance journeys that discourages local traffic (++) use. 13 Improved traffic management in and around Newport on the M4 Corridor. 14 Easier access to local key services and residential and commercial centres. 15 A cultural shift in travel behaviour towards more sustainable choices. 6

8 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Worksheet Description Appraisal (Core) Measure 1: 4 lane on-line widening This measure forms the core scheme of Package 3 and involves a programme of major on-line widening to the existing M4 corridor between Junctions 24 and 29 to dual 4 lane motorway standard with hard shoulders, achieving a design speed standard of 100kph (60mph) by improving the horizontal curves and sightlines. The phased programme would see on-line widening to dual 4 lanes, including a new tunnel bore at Brynglas, delivered in three phases over an approximate 15 year period: Phase 1 - Junctions J27 to J28 is the more technically challenging of the two sections. To achieve desirable minimum standards the overall width of the motorway (verge to verge) would need to increase by 9-26m. In addition some 1800m of new retaining walls may be required to minimise land take. Phase 2 - Junctions (including the Brynglas Tunnels) Having only dual 2 lanes, the tunnels are already operating at capacity during peak periods. The capacity of the existing tunnels cannot be increased and so to achieve dual 4 lane standard, a new twin bore tunnel would be created for the eastbound carriageway in (2 lane) + (2 lane) formation, whilst converting the existing bores to carry the opposite carriageway also in (2 lane) + (2 lane) formation. Phase 3 - Junctions To achieve desirable minimum standards the overall width of the motorway (verge to verge) would need to increase by 8-32m. In addition some 8500m of new retaining walls may be required to minimise land take. Economic Impact The measure will provide extra capacity on the M4, helping to improve journey time reliability and provide accident and delay savings. Improving journey times will reduce the costs of congestion. As an on-line measure, widening of the existing M4 will offer limited improvements to network resilience in the event of an incident occurring on the motorway. Traffic forecasts indicate that a widened M4 motorway would be expected to operate within capacity during peak periods in 2031, with only the section between Junctions 28 and 29 approaching capacity, which could result in some peak period congestion. Overall, this would offer significant improvement compared to the Do Minimum scenario. Widening the most heavily congested sections as the first phase would offer significant improvements to the operation of the motorway at the earliest opportunity. However, the scheme is likely to cause significant disruption during construction, which could have a major adverse impact on the local economy throughout the phased delivery period. Social Impact Improved visibility and the provision of hard shoulder and the removal of bottlenecks on the M4 are likely to improve safety. Dependent on final details it is estimated that around homes and businesses could be directly affected with some demolished in order to implement the required works, which is likely to attract opposition from the local residents and communities affected. There would also be significant impact on local communities during the construction phase. Environmental Impact There would be significant environmental impacts caused during construction, whilst there would be a slight beneficial impact on vehicle pollution and emissions following construction, due to reduced congestion. However, this benefit may be offset in the longer term should total traffic volumes continue to increase. Local air quality is likely to suffer as the widened motorway will be closer to sensitive receptors. Construction activities, new viaduct structures and potential increased traffic volumes may also adversely affect the River Usk Special Area of Conservation. Acceptability, Deliverability, Feasibility and Risk This is a highly complex scheme with a total of seventeen overbridges, including a railway bridge, needing demolition and replacement and three major viaducts needing to be widened, all requiring lengthy periods of traffic management on the M4 and the affected side roads. The engineering works involved in boring a new tunnel at Brynglas and modifying the existing infrastructure on the approaches are also significant and complex. Lane discipline at the divided lanes approaching the tunnels will need to be closely managed. There are inherent risks in tunnelling, with ground subsidence that may impact on properties above the tunnels. Each phase will require land take via Compulsory Purchase Order, with loss of homes and businesses at some locations. The cemetery at Christchurch could be affected. Decisions need to be made on whether bridges crossing the M4 are replaced offline with land take and Orders, or else roads and footpaths closed for the duration of the reconstruction. Utilities in the bridges will also be affected and will need diversions. This scheme would adopt a phased construction sequence in order to enhance its deliverability and spread the investment costs, which are estimated to be around 555m. Due to the complexities involved with the tunnelling works and the widening of an operational motorway, it is possible that the costs of this measure could escalate and outweigh the benefits, despite providing additional capacity. The measure is deliverable in the medium term, involving an approximate 15 year programme of works, with each phase delivering benefits following completion: Phase 1 involves widening of the most heavily congested sections of the M4 between Junctions 27 and 29 (including J27 safety improvements) by 2022 at a cost of 95m; Phase 2 involves widening the M4 between Junctions 25 and 27 (including widening of the west-facing slips and closure of the east-facing slips at J26 and closure of J25) by 2026 at a cost of 370m, to remove the bottleneck at Brynglas Tunnels; and Phase 3 would complete the widening between Junctions 24 and 25 by 2031, at a cost of 90m. Compatibility with Package 3: Summary of Key Issues This measure, as a core scheme, would provide additional capacity to the existing M4 motorway, which would address traffic congestion problems in a phased approach. This measure would rely on other measures within Package 3 to help promote sustainable travel choices in the longer term. In terms of delivery, the other core measures contained in this package, involving junction modifications at J25, J26 and J27, would need to be constructed as part of the widening works. 7

9 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Table (Core) Measure 1: 4 lane on-line widening Appraisal against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance Criteria Appraisal against Programme Goals (Transport Planning Objectives) Criteria Assessment Significance Economy Transport The measure will provide extra capacity, helping to improve journey time reliability and reduce accidents and delays. Construction works are likely to hinder traffic over the implementation period, but will deliver benefits once complete. Economic The widening of the M4 between Junctions 24 and 29, in conjunction with the other core measures to modify Junctions Efficiency (TEE) Economic Activity and Location Impact (EALI) Environment 25, 26 and 27 is estimated to yield a BCR of around 1.1 (excluding accidents and based on original M4 traffic forecasts). Providing significant additional on-line capacity will help reduce the barriers to economic activity in South East Wales, which is currently adversely impacted by traffic congestion during peak periods and unreliable journey times. On-line widening is likely to cause significant disruption during construction, which could have a major adverse impact on the local economy over the phased delivery period. Noise Noise pollution is likely to be exacerbated as widening is likely to attract higher volumes of traffic at higher speeds. (--) Local Air Quality (--) Greenhouse Gas Emissions Landscape and townscape Biodiversity Heritage Water environment Soils Reduced congestion should lead to improved local air quality around Newport s 4 Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs). However, this is likely to be offset by an increase in traffic volumes. Realignment would move the source of pollution closer to some receptors. Reduced congestion should lead to reduced greenhouse gas emissions. However, this is likely to be offset by an increase in traffic volumes. There would be adverse impacts on sensitive character areas including Tredegar House and Beechwood Park. There would also be adverse impact on areas of rural landscape. The visual impact of the motorway and the impact on properties through the built up area of Newport would be substantially increased. Works and potential increased traffic volumes may also adversely affect the River Usk Special Area of Conservation. In addition the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal (Junctions 26-27) and the Allt Yr Yn Local Nature Reserve (Junctions 26-27) may contain protected species. The on-line widening would run close to a number of sites of historic and archaeological interest. These include the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, Tredegar House (Grade 1 listed building and Historic Park and Garden), Beechwood Park (Historic Park and Garden). On-line widening may affect the Scheduled Ancient Monument at Fourteen Locks, a long barrow south-west of Junction 28 and a number of listed buildings close to the route. The on-line widening crosses the River Ebbw and the River Usk at existing crossings, so construction could have an adverse impact on the local water environment. On-line widening would also provide opportunities to improve existing drainage and water quality, which would have slight beneficial impacts. Agricultural land would adjoin the rural sections of the route. Works to the Brynglas tunnels could face major geotechnical difficulties resulting in landslip. Social Transport safety This measure will help improve road safety by reducing congestion levels and improving traffic flows. (++) Personal security No impact. Permeability Widening to the existing M4 route is unlikely to increase severance issues. Physical fitness The on-line widening is unlikely to lead to any changes in travel by active modes. Social inclusion Relieving congestion and improved traffic flows could lead to improvements in the reliability and journey times of strategic bus services, which use the motorway network, offering an opportunity to improve accessibility to key centres. No positive or negative discriminatory impact on any individual equality impact group. Equality, Diversity & Human Rights Acceptability, Feasibility, Deliverability and Risk Public acceptability: The overall benefits would attract support for the scheme, although communities affected by land acquisition are likely to oppose the scheme. Environmental impact and disruption expected during construction works could attract widespread public opposition. Acceptability to other stakeholders: Whilst environmental and community groups may oppose on-line widening, the measure would help address congestion problems in a phased and affordable manner, thus is likely to attract support from political groups, business and logistics organisations in particular. Technical and operational feasibility: This is a highly complex scheme requiring lengthy periods of traffic management on the M4 and the affected side roads. The engineering works involved in boring a new tunnel and modifying the existing infrastructure are also significant and complex. Financial affordability and deliverability: It is possible that the cost of this measure will outweigh the benefits despite providing extra capacity. It would be delivered over an affordable phased approach over a 15 year construction period. Risks: This is a highly complex scheme and there are inherent risks in tunnelling. Opposition from community and environmental groups is likely. (++) (-) (---) (--) (--) (---) 1 Safer, easier and more reliable travel East-West in South Wales. (+++) Improved transport connections within Wales and to England, the Republic (++) 2 of Ireland and the rest of Europe on all modes on the international transport network. 3 More effective and integrated use of alternatives to the M4, including other parts of the transport network and other modes of transport for local and longer distance journeys around Newport. 4 Best possible use of the existing M4, local road network and other transport (+++) networks. 5 More reliable journey times along the M4 corridor. (+++) Increased level of choice for all people making journeys within the transport 6 corridor by all modes between Magor and Castleton, commensurate with demand for alternatives. 7 Improved safety on the M4 Corridor between Magor and Castleton. (++) 8 Improved air quality in areas next to the M4 around Newport. (--) 9 Reduced disturbance to people from high noise levels, from all transport (--) modes and traffic within the M4 corridor. 10 Reduced greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle and/or person kilometre. (-) 11 Improved travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. 12 An M4 attractive for longer distance journeys that discourages local traffic use. 13 Improved traffic management in and around Newport on the M4 Corridor. 14 Easier access to local key services and residential and commercial centres. 15 A cultural shift in travel behaviour towards more sustainable choices. 8

10 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Diagram / Plan (Core) Measure 1: 4 lane on-line widening 9

11 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Worksheet Description Appraisal (Core) Measure 2: Widening of west facing slip roads at Junction 26 The west facing slip roads at J26 are heavily trafficked during peak periods and this measure would see the widening of these slip roads where they taper into the motorway to facilitate improved capacity at the eastbound exit from and westbound entry to the motorway. The measure would include an additional lane on the approach to the eastbound off-slip. At the westbound on-slip, the extra lane would be reinstated to give two lanes and the additional lane would be followed through into the merge with the motorway. The existing viaducts supporting the slip roads would need to be further extended to suit the widened slip roads over and above any widening needed for the core measure of motorway widening. Economic Impact Congestion and delays at these slip roads would be expected to reduce as a result of this measure, although there would be short term disruption as a result of construction. Once completed, this measure would enhance the movement of people and freight by improving access between the M4 and Cwmbran (eastbound); and Newport to M4 (westbound). Social Impact Improvement to the eastbound off slip could reduce build up of queues on the mainline M4 on the approach to this junction, which in turn could reduce the number of rear end shunts on this section of motorway. Therefore, safety would be improved. The measure would impact on the character and use of the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, particularly during construction works, which is used as a local leisure route for boats, cycles and walkers. Acceptability, Deliverability, Feasibility and Risk There are aspects of this measure that are likely to be desirable in terms of improving operations on the M4 motorway. However, improvements to the motorway junction are likely to result in some significant disruption to traffic during construction. Compatibility with Package 3: Summary of Key Issues In terms of delivery of Package 3, improvement to the west facing slip roads at J26 would need to be constructed as part of the motorway widening between Junctions 26 and 27. Environmental Impact As a result of both the widening of the motorway and the slip roads, the slip roads require realignment, which would impact on the line of the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal (including Grade II listed structures) and Crindau Park west of the A

12 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Table (Core) Measure 2: Widening of west facing slip roads at Junction 26 Appraisal against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance Criteria Appraisal against Programme Goals (Transport Planning Objectives) Criteria Assessment Significance Economy Transport Economic Efficiency (TEE) Congestion and delays at these slip roads would be expected to reduce as a result of this measure, although there would be short term delays as a result of construction. Economic Activity and Location Impact (EALI) Once completed, this measure would enhance the movement of people and freight by improving access between the M4 and Cwmbran (eastbound); and Newport to M4 (westbound). Environment Noise This measure is unlikely to have significant impacts on noise levels to receptors in the vicinity of J26 Local Air Quality This measure would increase capacity which is likely to result in less queuing on the motorway on the approach to Junction26, leading to a reduction in emissions. Greenhouse Gas This measure would increase capacity which is likely to result in less queuing on the motorway on the approach Emissions to Junction26, leading to a reduction in emissions. Landscape and townscape The widening of the west facing slips could have an associated adverse impact upon Crindau Park west of the A4051. Widening the west facing slips would require widening of the viaducts, which may particularly impact on (-) Biodiversity visual impact from the canal. There are sites of ecological interest at or close to J26, these include the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, the Allt-yr-Yn Local Nature Reserve, and the River Usk SAC that may contain protected species and which may require mitigation. Heritage The widening of the west facing slips could have an associated adverse impact upon the Monmouthshire and (-) Brecon Canal (including Grade II listed structures). Water environment The impact of construction over the Brecon and Monmouthshire canal may result in water pollution if this is not (-) managed well. Soils Agricultural land adjoins the rural sections of the route. (-) Social Transport safety Improvement to the eastbound off slip could reduce build up of queues on the mainline M4 on the approach to this junction, which in turn could reduce the number of rear end shunts on this section of motorway. Personal security No impact. Permeability On-line widening may impact on public rights of way close to or adjoining the route, access to which would need to be maintained through footpath diversions and appropriate crossing facilities. However, the scheme would not introduce any new areas of severance or restrictions to permeability for non-motorised users. Physical fitness The on-line widening is unlikely to lead to any changes in travel by active modes. Social inclusion This measure would impact on the character of the canal, which is used as a local leisure route for boats, cycles and walkers. Relieving congestion and improved traffic flows would lead to improvements in the reliability and journey times of strategic bus services, which use the motorway network, offering an opportunity to improve accessibility to key centres. Equality, Diversity No positive or negative discriminatory impact on any individual equality impact group. & Human Rights Acceptability, Feasibility, Deliverability and Risk Public acceptability: Improving access between the M4 and Cwmbran (eastbound); and Newport to M4 (westbound) is likely to attract public support. Acceptability to other stakeholders: Whilst there is likely to be disruption to traffic during construction, the general measure is likely to be supported by other stakeholders. Technical and operational feasibility: The existing viaducts supporting the slip roads would need to be extended to suit the widening. However, the scheme is considered feasible. Financial affordability and deliverability: This measure is considered to be affordable and deliverable in the short to medium term. Risks: Improvements to the motorway junction are likely to result in some significant disruption to traffic during construction. (-) 1 Safer, easier and more reliable travel East-West in South Wales. Improved transport connections within Wales and to England, the Republic of 2 Ireland and the rest of Europe on all modes on the international transport network. 3 More effective and integrated use of alternatives to the M4, including other parts of the transport network and other modes of transport for local and longer distance journeys around Newport. 4 Best possible use of the existing M4, local road network and other transport networks. 5 More reliable journey times along the M4 corridor. Increased level of choice for all people making journeys within the transport 6 corridor by all modes between Magor and Castleton, commensurate with demand for alternatives. 7 Improved safety on the M4 Corridor between Magor and Castleton. 8 Improved air quality in areas next to the M4 around Newport. 9 Reduced disturbance to people from high noise levels, from all transport modes and traffic within the M4 corridor. 10 Reduced greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle and/or person kilometre. 11 Improved travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. 12 An M4 attractive for longer distance journeys that discourages local traffic use. 13 Improved traffic management in and around Newport on the M4 Corridor. 14 Easier access to local key services and residential and commercial centres. 15 A cultural shift in travel behaviour towards more sustainable choices. 11

13 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Diagram / Plan (Core) Measure 2: Widening of west facing slip roads at Junction 26 12

14 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Worksheet Description Appraisal (Core) Measure 3: Removal of east facing slip roads at J26 The east facing slip roads at Junction 26 are relatively lightly trafficked, but their presence encourages local traffic to use the motorway and to pass through the Brynglas Tunnels. This measure removes the east facing slip roads at Junction 26 in order to reduce turning movements/conflicts and enable bus priority measures to be introduced on the A4051, which is a major bus route carrying buses per hour, two-way, during peak periods. Emergency or maintenance access via these slip roads will not be possible under Package 3 due to the widening of the M4 motorway. Street lighting would be removed. Area wide changes to signage will be required. Economic Impact The suggested modification of Junction 26 would be likely to improve operations on the M4 motorway as well as improving regional and local bus services thus improving access to local services and facilities. There is likely to be a slight increase in distance travelled on the network by car users due to traffic re-routeing. This measure has the potential to have a perceived negative impact on local businesses located close to Junction 26 due to reduced accessibility for those wishing to travel east along the M4. Social Impact The A4051 is a major bus route, carrying buses per hour twoway during peak periods. The introduction of bus priority at Junction 26 would significantly improve accessibility whilst a reduction of conflicting movements would be expected to improve road safety at the junction. Environmental Impact Removal of the east facing slips will have a positive impact upon the Shaftesbury Crindau Air Quality Management Area (AQMA). Increased travel distances could result in additional emissions; however improved traffic conditions on the M4 in Brynglas Tunnels could offset this. Acceptability, Deliverability, Feasibility and Risk There are aspects of this measure that are likely to be desirable in terms of improving operations on the M4 motorway as well as improving regional and local bus services. Traffic flows in the peak periods are likely to reduce by 5% through Brynglas Tunnels with an associated increase in the use of Junction 25a. Compatibility with Package 3: Summary of Key Issues In conjunction with the core on-line widening measure, closure of the east facing slip roads at J26 will help secure the M4 as a long distance route prioritising strategic journeys, whilst also improving bus service operations to the benefit of local accessibility. Preventing local traffic using the motorway for short trips and travelling through the Brynglas tunnels will also help relieve traffic congestion. Although scheduled to be implemented from 2026 in conjunction with Phase 2 of the online widening, there may be benefits in delivering this measure earlier. 13

15 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Table (Core) Measure 3: Removal of east facing slip roads at J26 Appraisal against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance Criteria Appraisal against Programme Goals (Transport Planning Objectives) Criteria Assessment Significance Economy Transport Economic Efficiency (TEE) This measure would improve access to local services and facilities by improving operations on the M4 motorway as well as improving regional and local bus services. Economic Activity and Location Impact (EALI) This measure would improve operating conditions on the M4 through Brynglas tunnels. Local businesses located close to J26 could experience reduced accessibility due to removal of direct link to the M4 east. Environment Noise Whilst noise levels would reduce around J26, there is likely to be an increase in the use of Junction 25a. Local Air Quality Removal of the east facing slips will have a positive impact upon the Shaftesbury Crindau Air Quality Management Area (AQMA). Greenhouse Gas Increased travel distances could be offset by improved operating conditions on the M4 through Brynglas tunnels. Emissions Landscape and Closure of an existing link will reduce the visual impact of traffic and no additional landscape required. townscape Although, the closed slip roads may become derelict. Biodiversity Closure of an existing link could be restored as a compensatory area. Heritage A number of archaeologically sensitive features including listed buildings and Scheduled Ancient Monuments are found along the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal but will not be impacted by this measure. Water environment The scheme could offer opportunities to manage water run-off and improve water quality. Soils An improvement in soils can be accommodated within the highway boundary. Social Transport safety Reduced levels of traffic merging onto the motorway at J26 would help reduce potential for accidents. However, a likely increase in the use of Junction 25a may result in the potential for increased volumes of traffic here to lead to safety issues. This issue would need to be considered further prior to implementation of the scheme. Reduced conflict at Junction 26 would be expected to improve safety at this junction. Personal security No impact Permeability Physical fitness Social inclusion The measure would not introduce any new areas of severance or restrictions to permeability for non-motorised users. This measure is unlikely to lead to any changes in travel by active modes although bus priority measures may encourage greater use of public transport for local trips. Bus priority measures would offer significant opportunities to improve accessibility and journey time reliability to key centres and services by public transport. No positive or negative discriminatory impact on any individual equality impact group. Equality, Diversity & Human Rights Acceptability, Feasibility, Deliverability and Risk Public acceptability: There may be public opposition to the closure of the east facing slip roads at J26, meaning journeys would potentially have to be diverted to J25a. The potential for improved operating conditions through Brynglas tunnels and the reduction in junctions on the M4 may attract support. Acceptability to other stakeholders: Logistics organisations are likely to support the measure, whilst it may attract opposition from community groups who currently use J26 on a regular basis for local accessibility. Technical and operational feasibility: The measure is technically and operationally feasible. Financial affordability and deliverability: The measure would be affordable in the short term and deliverable. Risks: The primary risk to implementation would be potential opposition from community groups for the closure of east facing slip roads at J26. (++) 1 Safer, easier and more reliable travel East-West in South Wales. Improved transport connections within Wales and to England, the Republic of 2 Ireland and the rest of Europe on all modes on the international transport network. 3 More effective and integrated use of alternatives to the M4, including other parts of the transport network and other modes of transport for local and longer distance journeys around Newport. 4 Best possible use of the existing M4, local road network and other transport (++) networks. 5 More reliable journey times along the M4 corridor. Increased level of choice for all people making journeys within the transport 6 corridor by all modes between Magor and Castleton, commensurate with demand for alternatives. 7 Improved safety on the M4 Corridor between Magor and Castleton. 8 Improved air quality in areas next to the M4 around Newport. 9 Reduced disturbance to people from high noise levels, from all transport modes and traffic within the M4 corridor. 10 Reduced greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle and/or person kilometre. 11 Improved travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. 12 An M4 attractive for longer distance journeys that discourages local traffic (++) use. 13 Improved traffic management in and around Newport on the M4 Corridor. 14 Easier access to local key services and residential and commercial centres. 15 A cultural shift in travel behaviour towards more sustainable choices. 14

16 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Diagram / Plan (Core) Measure 3: Removal of east facing slip roads at J26 15

17 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Worksheet Description Appraisal (Core) Measure 4: J27 safety improvements This measure is to reconfigure Junction 27 following widening to the motorway as part of Package 3 proposals. The design would prioritise a through link for the B4591 route and enhance safety conditions at the junction. This will involve reconfiguration of the roundabout circulatory to prioritise movements on the B4591 and revision of the slip road layout. Such works would be likely to require demolition of or encroachment into several properties. The existing Junction 27 slip road layout is not typical, taking the form of a half cloverleaf rather than a conventional diamond. A consequence of this layout is that the horizontal geometry on the slip roads is sub-standard for this type of junction on motorways. A perceived safety issue is that accidents may result from drivers not anticipating the tight bends on the slip roads and so travel at too high a speed for the geometry. In addition, the lack of acceleration/deceleration lengths for traffic entering and leaving the motorway at this particular junction can contribute to accidents due to the differential speeds between the mainline and the slip road where traffic is weaving. Widening the motorway would cause the already substandard slip roads to be further reduced in standard unless these proposed changes to the configuration are made. Economic Impact Enhancing safety conditions will reduce the cost of delays on the highway network potentially caused by incidents. Social Impact A number of properties could potentially require compulsory purchase and demolition in order to accommodate the works. The measure could also cause disruption and opposition from the local community in the short term during construction works. Once complete, the measure would improve road user safety. Environmental Impact There would be adverse environmental impacts from construction. However, improved traffic flows at J27 will benefit air quality and noise levels once works are completed. Acceptability, Deliverability, Feasibility and Risk This measure would improve road safety and is deliverable in the medium term. Compulsory purchase and demolition of several properties in order to accommodate the works, in addition to likely disruption during construction works could attract opposition from the local community. Compatibility with Package 3: Summary of Key Issues The widening of the motorway, as proposed within Package 3, would require reconfiguration of slip road access to manage traffic movements, as such the reconfiguration of Junction 27 would take place as part of Phase 1 of the core measure to widen the M4 motorway. 16

18 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Table (Core) Measure 4: J27 safety improvements Appraisal against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance Criteria Appraisal against Programme Goals (Transport Planning Objectives) Criteria Assessment Significance Economy Transport Economic Efficiency (TEE) The improvements will improve local accessibility and journey times to local centres. Journey time reliability would be expected to improve due to a reduction in the number of incidents occurring in the vicinity of J27. Economic Activity and Location Impact (EALI) Construction works will cause short-term disruption to road users. Enhancing safety conditions will reduce the cost of delays on the highway network potentially caused by incidents. Environment Noise There is likely to be a negligible impact. Local Air Quality There is likely to be a negligible impact. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Landscape and townscape Biodiversity There is likely to be a negligible impact. The visual impact and the impact on adjacent properties could be increased. (-) This measure requires additional land. There are a number of sites of ecological interest near J27 that may contain protected species and which may require mitigation. Heritage There is likely to be a negligible impact. Water environment There is likely to be a negligible impact. Soils Additional land would be required but there is likely to be a negligible impact overall. Social Transport safety Once complete, the measure would improve road user safety. (++) Personal security No impact. Permeability On-line widening may impact on public rights of way close to or adjoining the route, access to which would need to be maintained through footpath diversions and appropriate crossing facilities. However, the scheme would not introduce any new areas of severance or restrictions to permeability. Physical fitness This measure is unlikely to lead to any changes in travel by active modes. Social inclusion The enhancements to J27 would also benefit local bus operations along the B4591 route improving local accessibility and travel mode choice to the benefit of social equity. However, this measure could cause disruption and opposition from the local community in the short term during construction works. Equality, Diversity No positive or negative discriminatory impact on any individual equality impact group. & Human Rights Acceptability, Feasibility, Deliverability and Risk Public acceptability: Whilst delivering safety benefits would attract public support, disruption during construction works could attract opposition from the local community in the short term. Demolition and encroachment of properties could also attract public opposition. Acceptability to other stakeholders: This measure is likely to be supported politically. Technical and operational feasibility: There are unlikely to be any feasibility issues. Financial affordability and deliverability: The works could be delivered in the medium term. Risks: There would be adverse social impacts from construction. (-) 1 Safer, easier and more reliable travel East-West in South Wales. Improved transport connections within Wales and to England, the Republic of 2 Ireland and the rest of Europe on all modes on the international transport network. 3 More effective and integrated use of alternatives to the M4, including other parts of the transport network and other modes of transport for local and longer distance journeys around Newport. 4 Best possible use of the existing M4, local road network and other transport networks. 5 More reliable journey times along the M4 corridor. Increased level of choice for all people making journeys within the transport 6 corridor by all modes between Magor and Castleton, commensurate with demand for alternatives. 7 Improved safety on the M4 Corridor between Magor and Castleton. (++) 8 Improved air quality in areas next to the M4 around Newport. 9 Reduced disturbance to people from high noise levels, from all transport modes and traffic within the M4 corridor. 10 Reduced greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle and/or person kilometre. 11 Improved travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. 12 An M4 attractive for longer distance journeys that discourages local traffic use. 13 Improved traffic management in and around Newport on the M4 Corridor. 14 Easier access to local key services and residential and commercial centres. 15 A cultural shift in travel behaviour towards more sustainable choices. 17

19 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Diagram / Plan (Core) Measure 4: J27 safety improvements 18

20 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Worksheet Description Appraisal (Core) Measure 5: Close access to motorway from J25 This measure removes the east facing slip roads at Junction 25 and reconfigures the junction in order to better manage lane discipline on the motorway to both improve safety conditions and secure the M4 as a priority route for long distance strategic travel. The measure would also lead to improved operating conditions for buses and pedestrians. Junction 25 links the B4596 to the M4 motorway to the east. Alternative access would be provided by Junction 25a to the west of Junction 25, which also provides east-facing slip roads onto the motorway. The closure of motorway access at J25 would benefit lane discipline on the motorway: a) on the downhill approach to Brynglas Tunnels, westbound; and b) on the uphill section of St Julian s Hill, eastbound. Historically accidents have occurred due to vehicles changing lanes and as a result of rear-end shunts. Closure of the slip roads will potentially facilitate better lane management and improve safety. Emergency or maintenance access via the closed slip roads will not be possible under Package 3 due to the widening of the M4 motorway. Area wide changes to signage will be required. Economic Impact This measure aims to achieve accident savings on the motorway due to the removal of the conflict points and lane-changing on the approaches to Junction 25. There would be longer journey times for traffic previously using the J25 east-facing slip roads. This traffic would need to travel to J25a roundabout and U-Turn to access/leave the motorway. Whilst local accessibility via J25 would be reduced, journey times along the M4 would be improved with the route benefiting from reduced traffic flows merging on/off the motorway. Social Impact Improved operating conditions for buses and pedestrians would assist local accessibility. However, there would be reduced accessibility for traffic previously using J25 east-facing slip roads. Perceived accident hot spots (weaving and shunts) are located westbound approaching Junction 25 and eastbound where traffic is merging on to the motorway. The closure of the slip roads would enhance safety by reducing the likelihood of such accidents occurring. Reconfiguration works may encroach on, or require the demolition of a small number of properties. Environmental Impact The closure of Junction 25 could have potential environmental benefits to local receptors including reduced noise levels and improved air quality, although overall emissions may increase due to additional mileage caused by traffic re-routing onto alternative M4 junctions. Acceptability, Deliverability, Feasibility and Risk Removal of the connection to the motorway may be viewed as a disadvantage by local residents potentially causing public opposition. Reconfiguration works may also lead to encroachment of some properties. One or two properties may require compulsory purchase and demolition. It is anticipated that there will be increased use of A4042 motorway slip roads at Junction 25a. Compatibility with Package 3: Summary of Key Issues In conjunction with the core on-line widening measure, closing motorway access at Junction 25 will secure the M4 as a priority route for long distance strategic travel. However, it could also benefit local accessibility by improving operating conditions for buses and pedestrians using J25. Closure of Junction 25 is scheduled to be implemented from 2026 in conjunction with Phase 2 of the on-line widening, This measure could also complement Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) enforced lane restrictions for heavy goods vehicles by reducing traffic merge points on the M4. 19

21 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Table (Core) Measure 5: Close access to motorway from J25 Appraisal against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance Criteria Appraisal against Programme Goals (Transport Planning Objectives) Criteria Assessment Significance Economy Transport Economic Efficiency (TEE) The measure will improve journey time reliability on the M4, thus improving the efficient long distance movement of freight travel and people to employment opportunities. Traffic previously joining the M4 at J25 Economic Activity and Location Impact (EALI) Environment Noise Local Air Quality Greenhouse Gas Emissions would need to divert to J25a, involving longer journey times for these vehicles. This measure would benefit the regional economy by improving the efficient long distance movement of freight travel and people. In addition, this measure aims to result in accident savings on the motorway. Whilst additional traffic and associated noise could be expected with additional use of J25a roundabout, this would be offset by reduced traffic flows merging on/off the motorway at J25. Whilst additional traffic and associated air pollution could be expected with additional use of J25a roundabout, this would be offset by reduced traffic flows merging on/off the motorway at J25. There would be longer journey times for traffic previously using the J25 east-facing slip roads, which would increase vehicle emissions. However, this may be offset by reduced journey times overall along the M4 with the route benefiting from reduced traffic flows merging on/off the motorway. Works may encroach on, or require the demolition of a small number of properties. There is a possibility that the closed slip roads could become derelict. Landscape and (-) townscape Biodiversity There is a possibility that the closure of an existing link would be restored as a compensatory area. Heritage This measure does not impact on archaeologically sensitive sites. Water environment This measure does not impact on water environment. Soils This measure does not impact on soils. Social Transport safety Perceived accident hot spots (weaving and shunts) are located westbound approaching Junction 25 and eastbound where traffic is merging on to the motorway. The closure of the slip roads would enhance safety by reducing the likelihood of such accidents occurring. Personal security This measure would not impact on personal security. Permeability The measure would not introduce any new areas of severance or restrictions to permeability for non-motorised users. Physical fitness The package of measures is unlikely to lead to any changes in travel by active modes. Social inclusion This measure would benefit local accessibility by improving operating conditions for buses and pedestrians using J25 to the benefit of transport choice and social equity. However, there would be reduced accessibility for traffic previously using J25 east-facing slip roads. Equality, Diversity No positive or negative discriminatory impact on any individual equality impact group. & Human Rights Acceptability, Feasibility, Deliverability and Risk Public acceptability: There may be possible opposition to junction closure from local residents who will have to travel to J25a roundabout and U-Turn to access/leave the motorway. However, whilst local accessibility via J25 would be reduced, the general public are likely to support improved journey times along the M4 with the route benefiting from reduced traffic flows merging on/off the motorway. Works may also affect a number of properties. Acceptability to other stakeholders: This measure is likely to attract support from other stakeholders due to its likely impact on improving operations along the M4 for long distance journeys. Technical and operational feasibility: This measure is considered feasible. Financial affordability and deliverability: This measure is considered to be affordable and deliverable in the short to medium term. Risks: It is anticipated that there will be increased use of A4042 motorway slip roads at Junction 25a. 1 Safer, easier and more reliable travel East-West in South Wales. Improved transport connections within Wales and to England, the Republic of 2 Ireland and the rest of Europe on all modes on the international transport network. 3 More effective and integrated use of alternatives to the M4, including other parts of the transport network and other modes of transport for local and longer distance journeys around Newport. 4 Best possible use of the existing M4, local road network and other transport networks. 5 More reliable journey times along the M4 corridor. Increased level of choice for all people making journeys within the transport 6 corridor by all modes between Magor and Castleton, commensurate with demand for alternatives. 7 Improved safety on the M4 Corridor between Magor and Castleton. 8 Improved air quality in areas next to the M4 around Newport. 9 Reduced disturbance to people from high noise levels, from all transport modes and traffic within the M4 corridor. 10 Reduced greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle and/or person kilometre. 11 Improved travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. 12 An M4 attractive for longer distance journeys that discourages local traffic (++) use. 13 Improved traffic management in and around Newport on the M4 Corridor. 14 Easier access to local key services and residential and commercial centres. 15 A cultural shift in travel behaviour towards more sustainable choices. 20

22 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Diagram / Plan (Core) Measure 5: Close access to motorway from J25 21

23 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Worksheet Description Appraisal Measure 6: Dualling of the A465 Heads of the Valleys road (promoting use as alternative route) The 40km stretch of the A465 Heads of the Valleys Road from Abergavenny to Hirwaun is currently being upgraded from Wide Single Carriageway to Dual Carriageway in a phased manner. Sections 1 and 4 (of 7) are complete, with all remaining sections due to be complete by Dualling this section of the A465 will help create a strategic corridor capable of carrying traffic between the M50 Midlands link to Swansea and points further west, while bypassing the M4 in the vicinity of Newport and Cardiff. This measure would see the A465 promoted as an alternative route to the M4 for long distance east-west travel. This would be achieved through the proactive use of driver information systems in the form of variable message signing (VMS) on both the A449 corridor to the east of Abergavenny and the M4 corridor in the vicinity of Swansea. In the longer term, should the upgraded route prove successful in relieving M4 traffic there may be an opportunity to investigate the scope for further infrastructure upgrades. Economic Impact This measure could improve journey time reliability on the existing M4 corridor by encouraging east-west traffic to use the alternative route to the M4. It is forecast that, using a traffic model for 2030 with a dualling of the A465 Heads of Valleys, that the journey time between the A465/A40 at Neath and the A449 at Raglan, will be reduced by minutes. Use of the A465 alternative route could also improve journey time reliability during infrequent incident management scenarios where the M4 may be closed or partially restricted due to unforeseen events. Social Impact Reduced traffic flows on the existing M4 corridor would be expected to improve road user safety on the existing corridor and on the local highway network in the immediate vicinity of existing junctions. Improvements to the A465 corridor as a whole would be expected to improve road user safety on this alternative strategic corridor. Environmental Impact Use of the alternative route is unlikely to have an adverse impact on environment. While there may be some minor negative impacts on noise levels, air quality and greenhouse emissions along the A465 should this measure divert traffic along this route, the net impact should be neutral. There would be an equivalent improvement in noise levels, air quality and greenhouse emissions resulting from traffic altering their route away from the M4. Acceptability, Deliverability, Feasibility and Risk The dualling of the A465 Heads of the Valleys Road is being delivered as part of the Welsh Government Roads Programme. The upgrading of the road is understood to enjoy broad public support in the Heads of the Valley communities that it affects most closely. The measure to promote the A465 as an alternative strategic route to the M4 for long distance traffic travelling east-west is feasible as indicated by previous route studies undertaken by others and presents limited technical risks. It is unlikely that the A465 would attract significant traffic diverted from the M4 in normal conditions however, its value as an alternative route to the M4 corridor at times of accident or incident disruption, could be high should a proactive signing programme prove successful. Compatibility with Package 3: Summary of Key Issues This measure is complementary to the Package in that it will help relieve traffic congestion problems on the M4 corridor by providing a suitable alternative route for long distance east-west traffic that may not need to use the M4 to reach their destination. Whilst on-line widening would help relieve congestion on the M4, this measure would also prove important to helping relieve east-west traffic on the M4 at times of unanticipated events or incidents. Specifically, the introduction of incident and event management programmes would be needed, in addition to the introduction of Variable Message Signs (VMS) at strategic locations on the M4 and potentially A40 / A449, in order to optimise the use of the A465 as an alternative route to the M4. 22

24 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Table Measure 6: Dualling of the A465 Heads of the Valleys road (promoting use as alternative route) Appraisal against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance Criteria Appraisal against Programme Goals (Transport Planning Objectives) Criteria Assessment Significance Economy Transport Economic Efficiency (TEE) Providing an alternative route to the M4, particularly during online construction works on the M4, during an event or incident, will help the movement of people and freight to the benefit of the local and regional economy. (++) Economic Activity and Location Impact (EALI) Environment Noise Local Air Quality Greenhouse Gas Emissions Promoting the A465 as a strategic east-west route will enhance employment opportunities to the north of Newport and Cardiff. This measure could help divert traffic away from the M4, particularly during events or incidents, and this could reduce noise pollution caused by traffic congestion on the M4. However, this would be expected to be offset by an increase in noise levels along the A465 rising from an increase in traffic. This measure could help reduce air pollution caused by traffic congestion on the M4, particularly during events or incidents. However, there could be a corresponding reduction in air quality levels along the A465 should a significant proportion of traffic divert along this route. This measure could help reduce emissions as advice on alternative routes may help reduce congestion along the M4, particularly during events or incidents. There could be an increase in greenhouse gas emissions levels along the A465 should a significant proportion of traffic divert along this route. There would be no direct impact on the landscape. Landscape and townscape Biodiversity This measure would have a negligible impact on biodiversity. Heritage This measure would have a negligible impact on heritage. Water environment This measure would have a negligible impact on the water environment. Soils This measure would have a negligible impact on soils. Social Transport safety The use of the A465 as an alternative route will improve traffic safety at times of congestion during an incident or (++) event affecting travel along the M4 corridor. Personal security No impact. Permeability Whilst the dualling of the A465 incorporates elements that will facilitate easier access the road for pedestrians & cyclists, increased traffic flows could impact on permeability, although severance is likely to be negligible. Physical fitness This measure would unlikely lead to change in active travel. Social inclusion The dualling of the A465 would improve accessibility on a national level, to the industrial centres of the Midlands and south west Wales and on a local level, between Abergavenny and Hirwaun. No positive or negative discriminatory impact on any individual equality impact group. Equality, Diversity & Human Rights Acceptability, Feasibility, Deliverability and Risk Public acceptability: Use of the A465 as an alternative route, particularly during construction works on the M4, events or incidents affecting the M4 is likely to prove acceptable to the public. There is unlikely to be opposition from communities located in close proximity to the A465. Acceptability to other stakeholders: This measure is likely to attract political support following completion of the dualling of the A465 scheme. Technical and operational feasibility: This measure is both technically and operationally feasible following delivery of improved VMS technology at strategic locations along the M4 and A449 corridor. Financial affordability and deliverability: This measure is affordable and easily deliverable. Risks: There is a risk of the A465 suffering from traffic congestion during diversions. 1 Safer, easier and more reliable travel East-West in South Wales. (++) Improved transport connections within Wales and to England, the Republic of 2 Ireland and the rest of Europe on all modes on the international transport network. 3 More effective and integrated use of alternatives to the M4, including other parts of the transport network and other modes of transport for local and longer distance journeys around Newport. (++) 4 Best possible use of the existing M4, local road network and other transport (++) networks. 5 More reliable journey times along the M4 corridor. Increased level of choice for all people making journeys within the transport 6 corridor by all modes between Magor and Castleton, commensurate with demand for alternatives. 7 Improved safety on the M4 Corridor between Magor and Castleton. (++) 8 Improved air quality in areas next to the M4 around Newport. 9 Reduced disturbance to people from high noise levels, from all transport modes and traffic within the M4 corridor. 10 Reduced greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle and/or person kilometre. 11 Improved travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. 12 An M4 attractive for longer distance journeys that discourages local traffic use. 13 Improved traffic management in and around Newport on the M4 Corridor. 14 Easier access to local key services and residential and commercial centres. 15 A cultural shift in travel behaviour towards more sustainable choices. 23

25 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Diagram / Plan Package 3: On-line improvements to the existing M4 route including a new tunnel bore at Byrnglas Measure 6: Dualling of the A465 Heads of the Valleys road (promoting use as alternative route) 24

26 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Worksheet Description Appraisal Measure 7: J23a circulatory improvements As a result of the planned measures to connect M4 Junction 23a to the A48 SDR via the Steelworks Access Road (SAR) (part of the do-minimum scenario of the M4 CEM), Junction 23a would benefit from improvements to provide additional capacity in line with the core scheme to widen the motorway to dual 4 lane and hard shoulder. The existing roundabout at Junction 23a currently has spare capacity. However, use of the SAR could see increased traffic flows at this junction. In order to meet anticipated future additional demand, works would only need to be fairly minor in the short to medium term due to the spare capacity that exists at J23a. As such, this measure would see localised widening at the roundabout entry from the Steelworks Access Road and/or signalisation. In the longer term, should traffic volumes increase along this stretch, further works may be explored at J23a as part of this Package. Economic Impact Improvements to J23a will support the flow of traffic along the SAR route helping improve journey time reliability and improving access to employment opportunities in southern Newport. This could also benefit the Wales 1 Business Park which overlooks J23a. Social Impact The measure would be beneficial in improving accessibility to Newport with improved traffic flow and safety conditions at J23a joining the M4. It will also present an opportunity to improve existing unsafe public footpath pedestrian movements across the junction thus enhancing community safety. Acceptability, Deliverability, Feasibility and Risk Works would be minor and could be delivered within the highway boundary with little impact. It is therefore deliverable in the short term. This low cost scheme is likely to provide a value for money in reducing likely congestion at the junction arising from an increase in traffic along the Steelworks Access Road once it is improved and provides a link between M4 Junction 23a and the A48 SDR. Compatibility with Package 3: Summary of Key Issues This measure would be complementary to the on-line widening scheme proposed as part of Package 3. In addition, it would support the planned improvements to link Junction 23a to the A48 SDR via the Steelworks Access Road as part of the do-minimum scenario. Environmental Impact The initial minor nature of the scheme would have a negligible impact on the environment. An improvement in traffic flow and reduction in congestion at J23a would prevent the build up of vehicle emissions, noise and air pollution at this junction in the longer term. 25

27 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Table Measure 7: J23A circulatory improvements Appraisal against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance Criteria Appraisal against Programme Goals (Transport Planning Objectives) Criteria Assessment Significance Economy Transport Economic Efficiency (TEE) This measure would enhance local accessibility off J23a and improve journey time reliability along the highway network, particularly improving access to employment opportunities in southern Newport. Economic Activity and Location Impact (EALI) Local businesses located in close proximity to Junction 23a and the Wales 1 Business Park would benefit from improved traffic conditions, whilst access to the commercial centre of Newport from the east would be improved through reduced congestion benefits. Environment Noise Improved traffic flows and reduced congestion would improve noise quality within close proximity to J23a. Local Air Quality Improved traffic flows and reduced congestion would improve air quality within close proximity to J23a. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Landscape and townscape Biodiversity Improved traffic flows and reduced congestion would improve vehicle emissions within close proximity to J23a. The steelworks access road adjoins an historic landscape area. This measure could increase landscape and visual impact along M4 corridor. This measure is situated within the Gwent Levels SSSI. Potential impact on protected species. Biodiveristy impacts would be subject to the detailed design of measures and ecological surveys. Heritage This measure would impinge on an archaeologically sensitive area. (--) Water environment Drainage measures would be required as part of this measure. Soils There is potential for contaminated land along the route of the improved Llanwern Steelworks Access Road. No significant distributional impacts. Social Transport safety The measure would improve traffic flows and reduce congestion to benefit road safety at J23a. Personal security No impact. Permeability Physical fitness Social inclusion This measure will also present an opportunity to improve existing unsafe public footpath pedestrian movements across the junction thus enhancing community safety. This measure is unlikely to lead to any changes in travel by active modes although journey time reliability may encourage greater use of public transport for local trips. This measure will help to improve journey time reliability and improving access to key services and centres in southern Newport. No positive or negative discriminatory impact on any individual equality impact group. Equality, Diversity & Human Rights Acceptability, Feasibility, Deliverability and Risk Public acceptability: The scheme is unlikely to attract opposition from any groups. Acceptability to other stakeholders: The scheme is unlikely to attract opposition from any groups. Technical and operational feasibility: Works would be minor and could be delivered within the highway boundary with little impact. Financial affordability and deliverability: This measure would be affordable and deliverable in the short term. Risks: There are no foreseen risks associated with this measure. (--) (-) 1 Safer, easier and more reliable travel East-West in South Wales. Improved transport connections within Wales and to England, the Republic of 2 Ireland and the rest of Europe on all modes on the international transport network. 3 More effective and integrated use of alternatives to the M4, including other parts of the transport network and other modes of transport for local and longer distance journeys around Newport. 4 Best possible use of the existing M4, local road network and other transport networks. 5 More reliable journey times along the M4 corridor. Increased level of choice for all people making journeys within the transport 6 corridor by all modes between Magor and Castleton, commensurate with demand for alternatives. 7 Improved safety on the M4 Corridor between Magor and Castleton. 8 Improved air quality in areas next to the M4 around Newport. 9 Reduced disturbance to people from high noise levels, from all transport modes and traffic within the M4 corridor. 10 Reduced greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle and/or person kilometre. 11 Improved travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. 12 An M4 attractive for longer distance journeys that discourages local traffic use. 13 Improved traffic management in and around Newport on the M4 Corridor. 14 Easier access to local key services and residential and commercial centres. 15 A cultural shift in travel behaviour towards more sustainable choices. 26

28 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Diagram / Plan Package 3: On-line improvements to the existing M4 route including a new tunnel bore at Byrnglas Measure 7: J23A circulatory improvements 27

29 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Worksheet Description Appraisal Measure 8: J28 improvements This measure would build on the recently planned improvements to Junction 28 (which form part of the do-minimum scenario within the Corridor Enhancement Measures Programme) to further increase capacity when required by future traffic demand. This measure would be constructed to the north-west of the M4 and involves an M4 to A467 connection dedicated to provide a freeflow of eastbound traffic from M4 to Forge Lane. This would be delivered above the planned works that form part of the dominimum scenario. [For information, the key features of the planned do-minimum improvements include: An extended gyratory to the south requiring the demolition of the M4 westbound on-slip underbridge, over the A48 eastbound; A dedicated through link for eastbound traffic from M4 and A48 at Cleppa Park to A48 SDR towards Newport; A dedicated link from A467 Forge Road to M4 Eastbound; and All junctions on the gyratory are traffic-signal controlled. In addition capacity improvements are planned at the nearby A467 Bassaleg and A48 Pont Ebbw roundabouts]. Economic Impact Improving access between the M4 west and the A467 through the provision of this dedicated link will enhance accessibility and reduce journey times for traffic making this manoeuvre. However, the improvements to the overall operational performance of the highway network around Junction 28 and Bassaleg roundabout are likely to be marginal with negligible increase in traffic throughput at Junction 28. Social Impact The dedicated connection between the M4 west and the A467 would reduce traffic on the Junction 28 signalised gyratory which would reduce conflicts at this location. However there would be increased conflicts on the northbound A467 where the traffic from the M4 west dedicated link would merge with the traffic from Junction 28. Overall this measure is unlikely to have a significant impact on road safety around Junction 28. Acceptability, Deliverability, Feasibility and Risk The M4 to A467 connection would require the take-up of land to north west of the M4 at J28. There would also be traffic disruption during construction. The scheme is likely to be supported by business groups located on J28. Compatibility with Package 3: Summary of Key Issues Further improvements to Junction 28 would be in line with the on-line widening scheme proposed by the core measure in Package 3 which would need to be supported by junction enhancements. Environmental Impact This measure may have a potential adverse impact on the Tredegar House Historic Park and Garden, Grade I Listed Building and Conservation Area. A Grade II listed building is also situated along the boundary of the estate. This measure could impact upon the setting of several Grade II listed buildings along Forge Lane. 28

30 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Table Measure 8: J28 improvements Appraisal against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance Criteria Appraisal against Programme Goals (Transport Planning Objectives) Criteria Assessment Significance Economy Transport Economic Overall this measure is unlikely to have a significant impact on the operation of the highway network. Efficiency (TEE) Economic Activity This measure would have a negligible impact on economic activity. and Location Impact (EALI) Environment Noise This measure would have a negligible impact on noise. Local Air Quality This measure would have a negligible impact on air quality. Greenhouse Gas This measure would have a negligible impact on greenhouse emissions. Emissions Landscape and Road improvements at Junction 28 would have a potential adverse impact on the Tredegar House Historic Park (-) townscape and Garden and land to the west of the existing M4 that is designated as Environmental Space in the Newport Unitary Development Plan. However, considering the urban nature of the adjacent land, this impact is likely to be negligible. Biodiversity The take-up of and development of land to north west of the M4 at J28 would have a minor adverse impact on wildlife located at this location. (-) Heritage This measure may have a potential adverse impact on the Tredegar House Historic Park and Garden, Grade I Listed Building and Conservation Area. A Grade II listed building is also situated along the boundary of the (-) estate. This measure could impact upon the settling of several Grade II listed buildings along Forge Lane. Water environment This measure runs close to the Ebbw River and would need to accommodate flood mitigation works. (-) Soils A number of the improvements can be accommodated within the highway boundary. However, some additional land will be required. Social Transport safety This measure would have a negligible impact on safety. Personal security This measure would have a negligible impact on personal security. Permeability The works are likely to have a minor impact on permeability for non-motorised users. Physical fitness The measure is unlikely to lead to any changes in travel by active modes although journey time reliability may encourage greater use of public transport for local trips. Social inclusion This measure would have a negligible impact on social inclusion. Equality, Diversity No positive or negative discriminatory impact on any individual equality impact group. & Human Rights Acceptability, Feasibility, Deliverability and Risk Public acceptability: Traffic disruption during construction could attract public opposition but the benefits of the scheme, particularly for businesses located off the A467, are likely to be supported. Acceptability to other stakeholders: The scheme is likely to be supported by business groups located on J28. The M4 to A467 connection would require the take-up of land to north west of the M4 at J28, which may be opposed by land owners. Technical and operational feasibility: The scheme is both technically and operationally feasible. Financial affordability and deliverability: This measure would be affordable in the short term. As long as land to north west of the M4 could be purchased at market value there would be no risk to deliverability. Risks: The M4 to A467 connection would require the take-up of land to north west of the M4 at J28. There would also be traffic disruption during construction, which would require appropriate management. (-) 1 Safer, easier and more reliable travel East-West in South Wales. Improved transport connections within Wales and to England, the Republic of 2 Ireland and the rest of Europe on all modes on the international transport network. 3 More effective and integrated use of alternatives to the M4, including other parts of the transport network and other modes of transport for local and longer distance journeys around Newport. 4 Best possible use of the existing M4, local road network and other transport networks. 5 More reliable journey times along the M4 corridor. Increased level of choice for all people making journeys within the transport 6 corridor by all modes between Magor and Castleton, commensurate with demand for alternatives. 7 Improved safety on the M4 Corridor between Magor and Castleton. 8 Improved air quality in areas next to the M4 around Newport. 9 Reduced disturbance to people from high noise levels, from all transport modes and traffic within the M4 corridor. 10 Reduced greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle and/or person kilometre. 11 Improved travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. 12 An M4 attractive for longer distance journeys that discourages local traffic use. 13 Improved traffic management in and around Newport on the M4 Corridor. 14 Easier access to local key services and residential and commercial centres. 15 A cultural shift in travel behaviour towards more sustainable choices. 29

31 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Diagram / Plan Measure 8: J28 improvements 30

32 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Worksheet Description Appraisal Measure 9: High occupancy vehicles lanes This measure would involve the introduction of a dynamic High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane on the M4 between Magor and Castleton. Under Package 3, the M4 would be widened to 4 lanes between Junctions 24 and 29. The additional capacity provided by the widening could be utilised to provide a HOV lane along the M4. However a HOV lane would not be introduced until a study assessing traffic volumes and likely effects has been undertaken. This would promote sustainable travel practices and help reduce traffic congestion by promoting a culture change. However, in the event of congestion caused by incident or event, dynamic part time use for all traffic would be signed when certain traffic capacity thresholds are met. The basic principle is that only vehicles carrying two or more people, buses and two wheeled vehicles are permitted to use the lanes during the identified hours of operation. Department for Transport research shows that the potential for carpooling is 'quite respectable'; especially in home to work trips, although up to one fifth may come from public transport users. Economic Impact Whilst car-pooling helps reduce travel costs for those sharing, the primary objective of HOV lanes is to improve the overall journey time by reducing the number of vehicles on the road at peak times. The effects of HOV lanes may be asymmetric for local traffic depending on their ability to car pool. Dynamic use of HOV lanes when certain traffic capacity thresholds are met will ensure that the potential for traffic congestion and associated costs are minimised whenever possible. Social Impact Car sharing helps reduce costs of transport and gives people more transport options thus promoting social mobility and improved accessibility to those residing in rural areas in particular. Concerns over passenger safety, for women sharing with strangers in particular, are often addressed effectively by policies offered by national car sharing companies. It can also improve driver morale by providing a sociable commute. Environmental Impact Promoting sustainable practices and reducing the number of cars on the road will result in less congestion and less pollution, including air, noise and greenhouse gas emissions. Acceptability, Deliverability, Feasibility and Risk Evidence suggests that HOV lanes have slight impacts on addressing vehicle occupancy and journey times. Prior to the introduction of HOV lanes in South Gloucestershire, 20% of cars carried two or more occupants and this figure increased to 27% after the scheme came into operation. Following introduction of the scheme in Leeds, there was significant driver avoidance of the A647 in the morning peak period and flows fell by 20%. Eighteen months later traffic flows had returned to the pre-scheme levels. Comparing the situation one year before and one year after the introduction of the scheme, the morning peak journey time savings for buses and other HOVs in the HOV lanes was 4 minutes. Over the same period there was a reduction of 1.5 minutes in non- HOV journey times. One issue with car pooling is the variation in working hours across the workforce which is likely to limit the potential car pooling. Also, unlike conventional bus lanes, HOV lanes are not yet suitable for camera enforcement. Using current technology, it is difficult to establish how many occupants there are in a vehicle. Special arrangements between councils and the local police are often required to undertake enforcement. Compatibility with Package 3: Summary of Key Issues The core scheme will provide significant additional capacity on the M4, which would allow for the introduction of a dynamic HOV lane on the M4 between Magor and Castleton. HOV lanes are not the automatic solution to any particular type of problem but a HOV lane on the M4 as one of a range of measures could help encourage sustainable travel practices. 31

33 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Table Measure 9: High occupancy vehicles lanes Appraisal against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance Criteria Appraisal against Programme Goals (Transport Planning Objectives) Criteria Assessment Significance Economy Transport Economic Efficiency (TEE) The introduction of HOV lanes in the longer term could potentially reduce journey times on the road network, particularly during peak periods, by encouraging drivers to either car share or choose to take public transport. Economic Activity and Location Impact (EALI) Environment Noise Local Air Quality The longer term aspiration of introducing HOV lanes is to promote sustainable travel choices. Public transport operators and car pooling clubs could benefit where job opportunities could be created on a local scale. Reduced traffic volumes would reduce noise pollution levels along the M4 resulting in noise benefits to local receptors adjacent to the existing M4. Reduced traffic volumes would reduce air pollution levels along the M4, particularly benefiting Newport s Air Quality Management Areas within the corridor. Reduced traffic volumes would lead to reduced CO 2 emissions. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Landscape and No additional land will be required. There is no impact on landscape and townscape. townscape Biodiversity This measure would not encounter any ecological impacts and thus does not require ecological surveys. Heritage This measure would not impact on any archaeologically sensitive features. Water environment This measure would not impact water environment. Soils Soil improvements could be accommodated within the highway boundary. No additional land will be required Social Transport safety Should HOV lanes help change transport culture in the longer term, reduced traffic volumes would be anticipated and expected to deliver associated safety benefits. It is important that HOV lanes are not introduced until relevant studies demonstrate available capacity if this is not the case, there is a risk of lane movement conflicts. Personal security There is the potential for there to be personal safety issues arising as a result of car pooling. Permeability This measure would not introduce any new areas of severance or restrictions to permeability for non-motorised users. Physical fitness This measure is unlikely to lead to any changes in travel by active modes. Social inclusion This measure would promote car sharing and sustainable transport behaviour thus benefiting social equity. It could provide access to a car for non-car owners, thus increasing travel choices. Concerns over passenger safety, for women sharing with strangers in particular, are often addressed effectively by policies offered by car sharing companies. Equality, Diversity No impact. & Human Rights Acceptability, Feasibility, Deliverability and Risk Public acceptability: HOV lanes are often considered as controversial measures in the UK, although international evidence suggests that they can bring benefits where appropriately introduced. Whilst there would be a risk of public opposition, it is important that relevant studies are undertaken to demonstrate available highway capacity on the network prior to their implementation. Acceptability to other stakeholders: HOV lanes would require political support. Therefore a transport planning and business case supported by relevant evidence would need to be presented to appropriate authorities. Environmental and sustainability groups are likely to support the measure in the longer term. Technical and operational feasibility: Further investigation is required to determine whether the scheme would be technically and operationally feasible. Financial affordability and deliverability: This measure would be affordable in the short term. However, its deliverability would rely on political support and an evidence base demonstrating a strong transport planning and business case. Risks: The primary risk to delivery is public and political opposition to a HOV lane scheme. 1 Safer, easier and more reliable travel East-West in South Wales. Improved transport connections within Wales and to England, the Republic of 2 Ireland and the rest of Europe on all modes on the international transport network. 3 More effective and integrated use of alternatives to the M4, including other parts of the transport network and other modes of transport for local and longer distance journeys around Newport. 4 Best possible use of the existing M4, local road network and other transport networks. 5 More reliable journey times along the M4 corridor. Increased level of choice for all people making journeys within the transport 6 corridor by all modes between Magor and Castleton, commensurate with demand for alternatives. 7 Improved safety on the M4 Corridor between Magor and Castleton. 8 Improved air quality in areas next to the M4 around Newport. 9 Reduced disturbance to people from high noise levels, from all transport modes and traffic within the M4 corridor. 10 Reduced greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle and/or person kilometre. 11 Improved travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. 12 An M4 attractive for longer distance journeys that discourages local traffic use. 13 Improved traffic management in and around Newport on the M4 Corridor. 14 Easier access to local key services and residential and commercial centres. 15 A cultural shift in travel behaviour towards more sustainable choices. 32

34 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Worksheet Description Appraisal Measure 10: Manage speed of traffic The variable speed limit system began operation between Junctions 24 and 28 of the M4 in summer This measure would see the development of a new a speed management strategy to consider stricter control of speeding and review the use of speed limits and potential use of chevron markings following the phased completion of on-line widening, upgrading the motorway to dual 4 lanes and hard shoulder, as proposed by the core scheme in Package 3. Speed limits are usually set to attempt to cap road traffic speed; there are several reasons for wanting to do this. Speed limits may be set in an attempt to reduce traffic accidents and reduce the environmental impact of road traffic (vehicle noise, vibration, emissions), to reduce fuel use and to satisfy local community wishes. Another approach to speed management is the introduction of chevron markings on motorways. This is most beneficial along stretches where speeding is a perceived safety concern, such as Junction 23A to 24 on the M4. Recent research has suggested that close following (driving too close to the car in front) is a contributory factor in nearly 35% of all personal injury accidents on motorways. Such approaches could be revised once sections of the on-line widening are completed which would provide significant capacity increases and new highway conditions. Economic Impact Both speed limits and the use of chevron markings help reduce road accidents which can cause significant traffic delays and costs to the economy. There is a body of research which shows that reduction in speed correlates with a reduced rate of road accidents. Speed limits also provide Government with a control over average fuel consumption levels which can often help reduce fuel use. Social Impact Speed limits and chevron markings are used to reduce the differences in vehicle speeds by drivers using the same road at the same time which increases safety. Trials of chevron markings on the M1 motorways demonstrated a reduction of 40% in multi-vehicle accidents. Strictly enforced speed limits also help to ease community concerns, particularly in residential areas. However, generally, the public react adversely to Government intervention in speed management where its justification isn t demonstrated strongly. Environmental Impact Enforced speed limits help to reduce the environmental impact of road traffic by acting as a control mechanism addressing concerns of vehicle noise, vibration and emissions in particular areas. Speed limits can also control average fuel consumption levels that bring further environmental benefits. Acceptability, Deliverability, Feasibility and Risk Since their introduction, speed limits have been opposed from various quarters; including motoring advocacy groups, anti-motoring groups and others who either consider them to be irrelevant, set too low or set too high. Government intervention in speed management can often be met with contempt by motorists and lacks support from the general public. However the introduction of the variable speed limit system along the M4 Magor to Castleton has been widely welcomed following the replacement of the temporary 50mph speed limit. It is important that a speed management strategy is developed in partnership with the police and safety camera partnerships (possibly under the auspices of the Crime and Disorder Act, 1998). The police have the responsibility for enforcing speed limits and they will not support a strategy that stretches their resources unnecessarily. A strategy needs to be backed up with education, training and publicity. Speeding is still not considered sufficiently socially unacceptable to ensure as safe a road environment as possible, and this culture would need to be changed for speed management to be optimally successful in achieving its goals. Compatibility with Package 3: Summary of Key Issues The phased provision of significant additional highway capacity on the M4 will help reduce traffic congestion which could, in some cases, result in a driver culture to exceed the speed limit. Although recent approaches to speed management on the M4 have been taken with the introduction of the variable speed limit, the core on-line widening scheme will change traffic conditions over an anticipated 15 year phased construction period. As such, approaches to traffic speed management would be reconsidered once sections of the on-line widening are completed. 33

35 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Table Measure 10: Manage speed of traffic Appraisal against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance Criteria Appraisal against Programme Goals (Transport Planning Objectives) Criteria Assessment Significance Economy Transport Economic Efficiency (TEE) Intelligent use of speed limits and chevron markings could help improve traffic flows, safety and journey time reliability. Economic Activity and Location Impact (EALI) Environment Noise Local Air Quality Intelligent use of speed limits and chevron markings could help reduce road accidents which can cause significant traffic delays and costs to the economy. Speed limits also provide Government with a control over average fuel consumption levels which can often help reduce fuel usage. Speed limits help control noise and vibration levels caused by road traffic benefitting local receptors between Junction 24 and Junction 28. Speed management can help maintain vehicle flows and reduce the risk of traffic congestion caused by potential accidents. This can ultimately improve local air quality along the motorway between Junction 24 and Junction 28. Speed limits help control average fuel consumption levels which can often help reduce fuel use to the benefit of vehicle emission levels. This measure would not require additional land and would have no impact on landscape and townscape. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Landscape and townscape Biodiversity This measure would not impact on ecologically sensitive areas. Heritage This measure would not impact on archaeologically sensitive areas. Water environment This measure would not impact on water environment Soils This measure would not impact on soils. Social Transport safety Both speed limits and the use of chevron markings would help reduce road accidents. (++) Personal security No impact. Permeability This measure would not introduce any new areas of severance or restrictions to permeability for non-motorised users. Physical fitness This measure would be unlikely lead to changes to active travel. Social inclusion This measure could help to ease community concerns, particularly in residential areas. Equality, Diversity No positive or negative discriminatory impact on any individual equality impact group. & Human Rights Acceptability, Feasibility, Deliverability and Risk Public acceptability: Strictly enforced speed limits also help to ease community concerns, particularly in residential areas. However, generally, the public react adversely to Government intervention in speed management where its justification isn t demonstrated strongly. Acceptability to other stakeholders: Use of speed limits have historically been opposed from various sources; including motoring advocacy groups, anti-motoring groups and others who either consider them to be irrelevant, set too low or set too high. The safety benefits of speed management measures would need to be demonstrated in order to attract political support. Technical and operational feasibility: It is important that a speed management strategy is developed in partnership with the police and safety camera partnerships (possibly under the auspices of the Crime and Disorder Act, 1998). Financial affordability and deliverability: This measure would be deliverable following the phased delivery of on-line widening, which would change the context of traffic operations on the M4 motorway. Risks: The police have the responsibility for enforcing speed limits and they will not support a strategy that stretches their resources unnecessarily. 1 Safer, easier and more reliable travel East-West in South Wales. Improved transport connections within Wales and to England, the Republic of 2 Ireland and the rest of Europe on all modes on the international transport network. 3 More effective and integrated use of alternatives to the M4, including other parts of the transport network and other modes of transport for local and longer distance journeys around Newport. 4 Best possible use of the existing M4, local road network and other transport networks. 5 More reliable journey times along the M4 corridor. Increased level of choice for all people making journeys within the transport 6 corridor by all modes between Magor and Castleton, commensurate with demand for alternatives. 7 Improved safety on the M4 Corridor between Magor and Castleton. (++) 8 Improved air quality in areas next to the M4 around Newport. 9 Reduced disturbance to people from high noise levels, from all transport modes and traffic within the M4 corridor. 10 Reduced greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle and/or person kilometre. 11 Improved travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. 12 An M4 attractive for longer distance journeys that discourages local traffic use. 13 Improved traffic management in and around Newport on the M4 Corridor. 14 Easier access to local key services and residential and commercial centres. 15 A cultural shift in travel behaviour towards more sustainable choices. 34

36 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Worksheet Description Appraisal Measure 11: Improve traffic monitoring, incident management and queue detection This measure involves introducing and improving intelligent transport systems (ITS) to the motorway and regional highway network to assist in improving traffic monitoring, incident management and journey time reliability. The M4 currently benefits from variable speed limit technology and Variable Message Signs (VMS). However this measure would call for improved and earlier use of Variable Message Signing (VMS) including improved advanced communication of problems along the M4 to inform drivers travel choices and promote use of alternative routes, such as the Newport Southern Distributor Road (SDR) and the A465 in particular. Incident and response management could also benefit from new arrangements or a new facility within Newport for better control of and response to changing traffic conditions. ITS aims to improve highway network management through the use of innovative communications technology. For example, the provision of monitoring and detection on the A48 (SDR) could help to strategically divert traffic if flows breakdown on the M4 by relaying information to the public via VMS, websites, radio and social media. The term intelligent transport systems (ITS) refers to efforts to add information and communications technology to transport infrastructure and vehicles in an effort to improve safety, journey times, and fuel consumption. ITS vary in technologies, from basic management systems; traffic signal control systems; variable message signs; or monitoring CCTV applications; to more advanced applications that integrate live data and feedback. Economic Impact Generally, ITS can improve access to workplaces, facilities and services for all, by making travel more efficient. By helping drivers to find the best route to their destination, and change that route if major incidents occur, travel is made safer and more cost effective. Whilst helping address potential traffic congestion caused by flow breakdowns, ITS helps achieve 'best value' as a result of greater information gathering and improved decision-making. Social Impact ITS aims to reduce the number of accidents by providing drivers with more information about conditions on the roads they are using to improve the safety of motorists. By helping drivers to find the best route to their destination, access to communities, facilities and services is also enhanced. Environmental Impact ITS, when configured and used effectively, is a tool used to help reduce the effects of pollution from vehicles by better traffic management that aims to minimise traffic congestion and associated pollution. Acceptability, Deliverability, Feasibility and Risk The use of ITS generally has successful results where it has been established. The Cleopatra project in London (an information and guidance system), found that 58% of respondents would immediately respond to VMS congestion warnings, of which 83% would reschedule their journey and 6% would change modes. Integrated systems and information sharing give: Better coordination from area-wide strategies; Lower unit equipment and operating costs; and Better communication between authorities and coordination of actions and Partnerships, which can help reduce costs. ITS works best when deployed in an integrated fashion, particularly across geographic and institutional boundaries. Compatibility with Package 3: Summary of Key Issues Improving traffic monitoring, incident management and queue detection aims to help support highway network management initiatives in controlling traffic congestion. The role of ITS initiatives and managing traffic flows already play an important part in preventing traffic congestion along the M4 corridor. However, this measure would see this role reviewed and enhanced further following the phased completion of on-line widening to the M4 corridor; to better inform drivers of safer and faster routes to their destinations in the event of delays. 35

37 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Table Appraisal against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance Criteria Measure 11: Improve traffic monitoring, incident management and queue detection Appraisal against Programme Goals (Transport Planning Objectives) Criteria Assessment Significance Economy Transport Economic This measure will help make travel more efficient to reduce journey times and improve journey time reliability. Efficiency (TEE) Economic Activity This measure will benefit the regional economy by helping improve access to workplaces, facilities and services and Location Impact (EALI) for all, by making travel more efficient. Environment Noise This measure will help prevent delays and thus reduce the potential for noise pollution caused by congestion. Local Air Quality This measure will help prevent delays and thus reduce the potential for air pollution caused by congestion. Greenhouse Gas This measure will help prevent delays and thus reduce vehicle emissions caused by congestion. Emissions Landscape and No additional land will be required for this measure. This measure does not impact on landscape or townscape. townscape Biodiversity This measure would not encounter any ecological impacts and thus does not require ecological surveys. Heritage This measure would not impact on any archaeologically sensitive features. Water environment This measure would not impact on the water environment. Soils No additional land would be required for this scheme. Social Transport safety ITS aims to reduce the number of accidents by providing drivers with more information about conditions on the roads they are using to improve the safety of motorists. Personal security No impact Permeability The ITS system is unlikely to have an impact on non-motorised forms of transport. Physical fitness The package of measures is unlikely to lead to any changes in travel by active modes. Social inclusion This measure would offer significant opportunities to improve accessibility and journey time reliability to key centres and services by public transport. No positive or negative discriminatory impact on any individual equality impact group. Equality, Diversity & Human Rights Acceptability, Feasibility, Deliverability and Risk Public acceptability: This measure is likely to attract public support. Acceptability to other stakeholders: This measure is likely to attract political support. Technical and operational feasibility: This measure is technically and operationally feasible. Financial affordability and deliverability: This measure is affordable in the short term. Risks: This measure would require collaborative working between relevant delivery bodies to oversee the implementation of improved traffic management. (++) (++) 1 Safer, easier and more reliable travel East-West in South Wales. (++) Improved transport connections within Wales and to England, the Republic of 2 Ireland and the rest of Europe on all modes on the international transport network. 3 More effective and integrated use of alternatives to the M4, including other parts of the transport network and other modes of transport for local and longer distance journeys around Newport. 4 Best possible use of the existing M4, local road network and other transport networks. 5 More reliable journey times along the M4 corridor. (++) Increased level of choice for all people making journeys within the transport 6 corridor by all modes between Magor and Castleton, commensurate with demand for alternatives. 7 Improved safety on the M4 Corridor between Magor and Castleton. (++) 8 Improved air quality in areas next to the M4 around Newport. 9 Reduced disturbance to people from high noise levels, from all transport modes and traffic within the M4 corridor. 10 Reduced greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle and/or person kilometre. 11 Improved travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. 12 An M4 attractive for longer distance journeys that discourages local traffic use. 13 Improved traffic management in and around Newport on the M4 Corridor. (++) 14 Easier access to local key services and residential and commercial centres. 15 A cultural shift in travel behaviour towards more sustainable choices. 36

38 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Worksheet Description Appraisal Measure 12: Improve incident management This measure aims to utilise new technologies to innovatively tackle congestion caused by disruptive incidents. The Traffic Wales traffic management and information service monitor the network and help to manage incidents responsively and effectively. Existing systems use CCTV technology, deploying Traffic Officers to incident scenes and relaying up-to-the-minute information to road users. Further improvements are proposed to include: Active Traffic Management (ATM) - enabling management of the speed of traffic and dynamic use of the hard shoulder where appropriate; Automatic Queue Detection and Signalling; Earlier and better information sharing via Variable Message Signs; Advanced Motorway Indicators (AMI); Privacy screens to prevent rubber necking at accidents; Improved signage for diversion routes; Improved accident investigation techniques, allowing quicker recovery of highway network following accidents; and Development of innovative software methods to improve the dynamic prediction, detection, and verification of incidents. Economic Impact A UK AA/TrafficMaster study in 2009 found that in the first 8 months of ,700 accidents and incidents resulted in over 5,000 hours of motorway closures (73 hours on the M4). This creates a significant cost to the economy accounting for millions of pounds worth of financial cost caused by traffic delays alone. Helping to reduce the impact of incidents on the road network will ultimately reduce congestion, improve journey time reliability and limit cost to the economy. Social Impact Adopting improved incident management systems and practices would help with the detection and responsiveness to incidents better and faster, improving safety and reducing traffic disruption. This will reduce driver stress and improve journey time reliability to important services and facilities. Where diversions are recommended, careful consideration would be given to the impact on local residents on the diversionary route. Acceptability, Deliverability, Feasibility and Risk Any measure to reduce incidents and manage incidents better is likely to be supported politically. Delivery of further improvements to incident management will require additional resources being provided to Traffic Wales to help implement more effective approaches to incident detection and response. In operational terms, it will be crucial to work with the emergency services both locally and nationally, to agree the protocols that will underpin the arrangements for dealing with incidents on a managed motorway network. Compatibility with Package 3: Summary of Key Issues This measure would do much to reduce the impact of incidents on the movement of traffic and help reduce congestion on such occasions. Investment in Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) schemes will be required to aid the development of traffic management, incident detection and operation systems. Environmental Impact Reducing the impact of incidents will help reduce congestion thus reducing associated air and noise pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. 37

39 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Table Appraisal against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance Criteria Measure 12: Improve incident management Appraisal against Programme Goals (Transport Planning Objectives) Criteria Assessment Significance Economy Transport Economic Efficiency (TEE) This measure will improve incident management and response in order to help reduce journey times and improve journey time reliability. Economic Activity and Location Impact (EALI) Environment Noise Local Air Quality This measure will benefit the regional economy by helping reduce the impact of incidents and associated traffic congestion on the economy. This measure will help reduce the impact of delays and thus reduce noise levels which would bring benefits to local receptors along the M4. This measure will help reduce the impact of delays and would provide reductions in levels of atmospheric pollution to a large number of local receptors within close proximity to M4. This measure will help reduce the impact of delays and thus reduce additional vehicle emissions. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Landscape and No additional land will be required for this measure. This measure does not impact on landscape or townscape. townscape Biodiversity No impact Heritage This measure would not impact on any archaeologically sensitive features. Water environment No impact Soils This measure would not impact on soils. Social Transport safety Improved incident management and response will help enhance road user safety. (++) Personal security No impact Permeability The scheme would not introduce any new areas of severance or restrictions to permeability for non-motorised users. Physical fitness No impact Social inclusion This measure would detect and respond to incidents better and faster. This measure would reduce driver stress. (++) Equality, Diversity & Human Rights No positive or negative discriminatory impact on any individual equality impact group. Acceptability, Feasibility, Deliverability and Risk Public acceptability: This measure is likely to attract public support. Acceptability to other stakeholders: This measure is likely to attract political support. Technical and operational feasibility: This measure is technically and operationally feasible. Financial affordability and deliverability: This measure is affordable in the short term. Risks: This measure would require collaborative working between relevant delivery bodies to oversee the implementation of improved incident management. 1 Safer, easier and more reliable travel East-West in South Wales. Improved transport connections within Wales and to England, the Republic of 2 Ireland and the rest of Europe on all modes on the international transport network. 3 More effective and integrated use of alternatives to the M4, including other parts of the transport network and other modes of transport for local and longer distance journeys around Newport. 4 Best possible use of the existing M4, local road network and other transport networks. 5 More reliable journey times along the M4 corridor. Increased level of choice for all people making journeys within the transport 6 corridor by all modes between Magor and Castleton, commensurate with demand for alternatives. 7 Improved safety on the M4 Corridor between Magor and Castleton. (++) 8 Improved air quality in areas next to the M4 around Newport. 9 Reduced disturbance to people from high noise levels, from all transport modes and traffic within the M4 corridor. 10 Reduced greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle and/or person kilometre. 11 Improved travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. 12 An M4 attractive for longer distance journeys that discourages local traffic use. 13 Improved traffic management in and around Newport on the M4 Corridor. 14 Easier access to local key services and residential and commercial centres. 15 A cultural shift in travel behaviour towards more sustainable choices. 38

40 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Worksheet Description Appraisal Measure 13: Better event management This measure involves further improving the use of temporary measures to manage public transport, traffic and parking during special events through the preparation and implementation of a new/improved event management plans. The organisers of planned special events can optimise transport operations and influence attendee travel choices, using measures such as traffic control, signage and information, to influence decisions such as route and mode choice to/from the venue. Public transport initiatives such as extended operating times would also help reduce event traffic demand. Certain venue locations, particularly city centre areas, may also attract significant walking or bicycle trips. Encouraging modal shift could be achieved by providing: Attractive walking routes between venues and city centre areas; Reliable and frequent public transport services between venues, hotels and city centre areas; Incentives for attendees such as free public transport for attendees on display of event ticket; and Easily accessible information on what transport modes are available to get them to and from venues through websites and booklets. Economic Impact Reducing the impact of major events on traffic congestion aims to ensure people travel to and from event venues safely, efficiently and in a timely manner - whilst minimising disruption to local residents and businesses. Limiting traffic congestion and delays on the transport network will help prevent costs to the economy. A Welsh Government report estimated the cost of congestion arising from the 2010 Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor to be of the magnitude of 100k-200k. Social Impact Effective event management will help to reduce the nuisance to local residents caused by the events and will enhance safety for all road users in light of additional demand. Environmental Impact Transport can be one of the most complex aspects of hosting a major event and is often the largest contributor to costs, emissions, and reduced air quality. Encouraging people to use sustainable transport modes to get to and from events will reduce travel time, traffic congestion, exhaust fumes, and parking problems. Reducing the impact of events on traffic congestion will reduce air, noise and emissions pollution. Acceptability, Deliverability, Feasibility and Risk Newport has experience in managing major events, most recently with the Ryder Cup, which involved collaborative working between Gwent Police, Newport City Council, The Highways Agency, The Welsh Government, Ryder Cup Wales, The Celtic Manor Resort, local community groups, Emergency Services and other agencies. Therefore Newport has demonstrated a high level of capability in managing and delivering major events demonstrating this measure s feasibility. In order to further improve event management operations, the promotion of sustainable transport modes will be important, which will mean encouraging attendees to travel by bus, train or shuttle bus; car-sharing; cycling or walking. Providing public transport alternatives to the car during events will be the most deliverable way of reducing car use, thus reducing congestion and benefiting the environment. Encouraging people to make these transport choices can require collaboration between venue owners, transport companies, and local councils which requires a level of collaborative working and political commitment. Compatibility with Package 3: Summary of Key Issues This measure would do much to reduce the impact of major events on traffic flows in and around Newport and help reduce traffic congestion on such occasions. Investment in Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) will be required to aid the development of traffic management and operation systems. This measure will also rely on investment in public transport services and coordination with park and ride facilities to support the intentions to encourage more people to use public transport instead of the private car when travelling to events. 39

41 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Table Appraisal against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance Criteria Measure 13: Better event management Appraisal against Programme Goals (Transport Planning Objectives) Criteria Assessment Significance Economy Transport Economic Efficiency (TEE) This measure will improve event management in order to help reduce journey times and improve journey time reliability for both visitors and local businesses and communities. Economic Activity and Location Impact (EALI) Environment Noise Local Air Quality This measure will benefit the regional economy by helping reduce the impact of events and any associated traffic congestion on the economy, whilst also helping to improve the travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. This measure will help reduce the potential impact of traffic congestion and thus reduce the potential for additional noise pollution in and around Newport area. This measure will help reduce the potential impact of traffic congestion and thus reduce the potential for additional air pollution in and around Newport area. This measure will help reduce the potential impact of traffic congestion and thus reduce the potential for additional vehicle emissions caused by traffic delays in and around Newport area. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Landscape and No additional land will be required for this measure. Beneficial to landscape by making walking routes attractive townscape between city centre areas and venues. Biodiversity This measure would not encounter any ecological impacts and thus does not require ecological surveys. Heritage This measure would not impact on any archaeologically sensitive features. Water environment This measure would not impact on the water environment. Soils This measure would not impact on soils. Social Transport safety Improved event management will help enhance road user safety. Personal security Event management planning would include measures to maximise personal security for those attending events. Permeability Physical fitness This scheme would be beneficial to pedestrians and cyclists in the Newport area by opening up attractive walking/cycling routes between venues and city centre areas. This measure could lead to a change in travel by encouraging a modal shift to use improved walking/cycling routes and reliable and frequent public transport for attendees on display of event ticket. Social inclusion Event management will promote the use of a range of modes of transport, thus promoting social inclusion. Equality, Diversity & Human Rights No positive or negative discriminatory impact on any individual equality impact group. Acceptability, Feasibility, Deliverability and Risk Public acceptability: This measure is likely to attract public support. Acceptability to other stakeholders: This measure is likely to attract political support. Technical and operational feasibility: This measure is technically and operationally feasible. Financial affordability and deliverability: This measure is affordable in the short term. Risks: This measure would require collaborative working between relevant delivery bodies to oversee the implementation of improved event management. 1 Safer, easier and more reliable travel East-West in South Wales. Improved transport connections within Wales and to England, the Republic of 2 Ireland and the rest of Europe on all modes on the international transport network. 3 More effective and integrated use of alternatives to the M4, including other parts of the transport network and other modes of transport for local and longer distance journeys around Newport. 4 Best possible use of the existing M4, local road network and other transport networks. 5 More reliable journey times along the M4 corridor. Increased level of choice for all people making journeys within the transport 6 corridor by all modes between Magor and Castleton, commensurate with demand for alternatives. 7 Improved safety on the M4 Corridor between Magor and Castleton. 8 Improved air quality in areas next to the M4 around Newport. 9 Reduced disturbance to people from high noise levels, from all transport modes and traffic within the M4 corridor. 10 Reduced greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle and/or person kilometre. 11 Improved travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. 12 An M4 attractive for longer distance journeys that discourages local traffic use. 13 Improved traffic management in and around Newport on the M4 Corridor. 14 Easier access to local key services and residential and commercial centres. 15 A cultural shift in travel behaviour towards more sustainable choices. 40

42 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Worksheet Description Measure 14: Encourage use of alternative routes to M4 and Improve traffic management for diversion routes Appraisal This measure would see the development and implementation of a traffic management, alternative routes and diversions plan that would actively promote the use of alternative routes to the M4 for east-west traffic particularly during the construction phases of the on-line widening works or in the event of an incident on the motorway or as part of an event management plan. This collaborative plan would be developed to prioritise the use of the A465, A449, A470 and Newport Southern Distributor Road (SDR) as alternatives to reduce demand on the M4 around Newport. It would be regularly monitored and updated in order to utilise the phased delivery of additional capacity along the A465, Steelworks Access Road (SAR) and SDR routes in particular. In practice, this measure would involve proactive signing of traffic to use alternative routes depending on their end destination in order to redistribute traffic and relieve the M4 of unnecessary capacity problems whilst on-line widening works take place. At peak times and in event of incidents, this approach would require the effective management of traffic diversions onto these alternative routes, even following the completion of the on-line widening scheme. The provision of effective traffic information to road users not only assists motorists in making better travel decisions, but also enhances the effectiveness and efficiency of highway services. Particularly, in the event of traffic incidents, motorists might avoid traffic congestion and/or delays, through use of highway advisory devices e.g. Variable Message System (VMS) or website traffic information. Economic Impact Overall, the benefits of alternative routing include reductions in motorists journey times, vehicle operating costs, and accident costs across the whole highway network. Whilst redistributing traffic from the M4 onto alternative routes could have minor adverse impacts on some communities, generally reduced traffic congestion across the network would benefit accessibility to the urban centres and employment opportunities in Newport and Cardiff. Social Impact Redistributing M4 traffic onto less congested routes will help reduce driver stress and improve journey time reliability, where the alternative route is not significantly longer than the original route. However, if the redistribution adds congestion onto the local road network, accessibility to local services and facilities may be adversely affected. Environmental Impact The objective of redistributing a proportion of traffic from the M4 onto alternative routes will relieve the M4 corridor area of pollution and emissions. However it is acknowledged that whilst the measure would redistribute traffic pollution and thus reduce its impact, in terms of total pollution/emissions production this measure would not achieve total reductions overall. Acceptability, Deliverability, Feasibility and Risk This measure is currently being delivered with added infrastructure (fibre/cctv/vms) being installed on A40/A449/A465/A470 routes known as the South Wales Box. Ultimately the success of promoting alternative routes will require a committed planning and organisational effort in which several potential barriers must be addressed. These include: Lack of capacity on alternative routes; Potential inadequacy of alternative routes to manage increased demand (i.e. safety); Lack of traffic monitoring equipment and other Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) on the alternative routes; Public opposition from existing users of the alternative routes to the diversions; Possible loss of credibility in VMS usage should an undesirable level of congestion develop on the alternative routes following a diversion. This measure would require better on-line assistance and information in response to traffic incidents. On-line traffic information is one of the crucial components that affect users travel decisions and this measure would require earlier and more effective communication of alternative routes and incident diversions. The development of a diversion practice includes inherent capital costs, such as the purchase, deployment and management of portable and stationary VMS. The M4 between Magor and Castleton currently benefits from good provision of VMS technology, although alternative routes would require upgrades to ITS. Compatibility with Package 3: Summary of Key Issues This measure will play an important role in reducing potential disruption caused by the phased construction of the core scheme of major on-line widening along the M4. The effective transfer of a significant proportion of M4 traffic onto alternative routes with existing capacity will be important to the success of this Package. At a delivery level, the use of Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) and Variable Message Signs (VMS) will be central to efficient transport communications involved in the delivery of traffic diversions. 41

43 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Table Appraisal against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance Criteria Measure 14: Encourage use of alternative routes to M4 and Improve traffic management for diversion routes Appraisal against Programme Goals (Transport Planning Objectives) Criteria Assessment Significance Economy Transport Economic Efficiency (TEE) Encouraging the use of alternative routes to the M4 during an event or incident, will help the movement of people and freight to the benefit of the local and regional economy. Economic Activity and Location Impact (EALI) Environment Noise Local Air Quality Promoting the A465, A449, A470 and SDR as alternative east-west routes to the M4 will enhance employment opportunities and economies in communities adjacent to these corridors. This measure will help reduce noise pollution caused by traffic congestion on the M4, particularly during events or incidents. There could be an increase in levels along alternative routes, though this is likely to be negligible. This measure will help reduce air pollution caused by traffic congestion on the M4, particularly during events or incidents. There could be an increase in levels along alternative routes, though this is likely to be negligible. This measure will help reduce emissions caused by traffic congestion on the M4, particularly during events or incidents. There could be an increase in levels along alternative routes, though this is likely to be negligible. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Landscape and This measure is unlikely to impact the landscape and townscape. No additional land is required. townscape Biodiversity This measure is unlikely to impact the biodiversity and thus does not require any ecological surveys. Heritage This measure is unlikely to impact any archaeological sites. Water environment This measure is unlikely to impact on water environment. Soils This measure is unlikely to impact soils. Social Transport safety The use of alternative routes will redistribute traffic across the South Wales road network and improve traffic safety, particularly at times of congestion during an incident or event affecting travel along the M4 corridor. Personal security No impact. Permeability This measure would not introduce any new areas of severance or restrictions to permeability for non-motorised Physical fitness Social inclusion Equality, Diversity & Human Rights users. This measure is unlikely to lead to any changes in travel by active modes although journey time reliability may encourage greater use of public transport for local trips. This measure will help reduce driver stress and improve journey time reliability, where the alternative route is not significantly longer than the original route. However, if the redistribution adds congestion onto the local road network, accessibility to local services and facilities may be adversely affected. No positive or negative discriminatory impact on any individual equality impact group. Acceptability, Feasibility, Deliverability and Risk Public acceptability: Use of alternative routes, particularly during events or incidents affecting the M4 is likely to prove acceptable to the public. There is unlikely to be opposition from communities located in close proximity to the alternative corridors. Acceptability to other stakeholders: This measure is likely to attract political support. Technical and operational feasibility: This measure is likely to be both technically and operationally feasible. A review of existing and forecast travel demand on alternative route corridors will be required. Financial affordability and deliverability: This measure is affordable and easily deliverable. Risks: There is a risk of alternative routes suffering from traffic congestion during diversions. However, the potential for this taking into account current capacity forecasts is unlikely. (++) 1 Safer, easier and more reliable travel East-West in South Wales. Improved transport connections within Wales and to England, the Republic of 2 Ireland and the rest of Europe on all modes on the international transport network. 3 More effective and integrated use of alternatives to the M4, including other parts of the transport network and other modes of transport for local and longer distance journeys around Newport. 4 Best possible use of the existing M4, local road network and other transport networks. 5 More reliable journey times along the M4 corridor. Increased level of choice for all people making journeys within the transport 6 corridor by all modes between Magor and Castleton, commensurate with demand for alternatives. 7 Improved safety on the M4 Corridor between Magor and Castleton. (++) 8 Improved air quality in areas next to the M4 around Newport. 9 Reduced disturbance to people from high noise levels, from all transport modes and traffic within the M4 corridor. 10 Reduced greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle and/or person kilometre. 11 Improved travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. 12 An M4 attractive for longer distance journeys that discourages local traffic use. 13 Improved traffic management in and around Newport on the M4 Corridor. 14 Easier access to local key services and residential and commercial centres. 15 A cultural shift in travel behaviour towards more sustainable choices. 42

44 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Diagram / Plan Measure 14: Encourage use of alternative routes to M4 and Improve traffic management for diversion routes 43

45 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Worksheet Description Appraisal Measure 15: Improve road management during times of poor weather Following two challenging winter periods that caused disruption to the UK transport network at a cost to the economy, this measure would see further improvement to winter service management. Newport City Council and the South Wales Trunk Road Agency (SWTRA) currently carry out road gritting and snow removal to minimise delays caused by adverse weather conditions and to aid road safety. Further improvements would see additional funds and resources provided to improve adverse weather planning. Investment would be aimed at further improvements to: Weather Forecasting and Monitoring; Road Condition Sensors (ICELERT); Road Weather Information Bureau Service; Maintenance of Weather Station Equipment; Route Planning; Maintenance of Facilities, Plant, Vehicles and Equipment; and Salt and Other De-icing Materials. Economic Impact Maintaining access for logistics companies, freight carriers and the labour force to employment centres is vital to limiting the impact of poor weather conditions on the economy. The insurance firm RSA estimates that disruption caused by poor weather costs the Welsh economy approximately 25m per day during the adverse climatic conditions with much of this cost arising from issues on the road network. Social Impact The winter service is provided to make journeys as safe as possible for the conditions and keep any delays caused by adverse weather to a minimum. Improving the road conditions for users aims to minimise accidents and maintain accessibility for communities to important services and facilities. Acceptability, Deliverability, Feasibility and Risk The motorway and trunk roads are maintained by SWTRA and local roads are serviced by local authorities. Welsh Government funds the M4 winter maintenance service and each year Newport City Council spends approximately 300,000 on Winter Maintenance in the local authority area, salting strategic routes and providing snow clearance during severe weather. However they are only able to act within resource availability. Further improvement would require additional funding to the winter service team, to limit the impact of severe weather conditions affecting the economy. The level of resources required to address poor weather conditions is often difficult to anticipate, when weather patterns during the winter period vary year on year. While there are good prospects for improving seasonal forecasting (which will be valuable for salt supply planning), progress on long term decadal forecasting to inform investment decisions is still some way off. Important to operating an efficient winter service is communication between local authorities, service providers, the highways authority, communities and the emergency services. Compatibility with Package 3: Summary of Key Issues This measure would benefit the tackling of traffic congestion problems during extreme weather events most commonly experienced during the peak winter months. The winter service team would need to focus on the operation of the transport network as a whole. Environmental Impact Unsurprisingly, severe weather conditions actually reduce the number of vehicles travelling on the roads, thus reducing pollution levels directly created by traffic. However, the mass production, demand and distribution of salt/gritting material do come at a cost to the environment. 44

46 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Table Appraisal against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance Criteria Measure 15: Improve road management during times of poor weather Appraisal against Programme Goals (Transport Planning Objectives) Criteria Assessment Significance Economy Transport Economic Efficiency (TEE) This measure will improve winter management to maintain traffic movements and help prevent traffic incidents, which will reduce the impact of poor weather conditions on travel times and thus on the Welsh economy. Economic Activity and Location Impact (EALI) This measure will benefit the regional economy by helping reduce the impact of poor weather and potential incidents and associated traffic congestion on the economy. Environment Noise This measure will help reduce the impact of delays and thus reduce the potential for additional noise pollution. Local Air Quality This measure will help reduce the impact of delays and thus reduce the potential for additional air pollution. Greenhouse Gas This measure will help reduce the impact of delays and thus reduce additional vehicle emissions. Emissions Landscape and This measure does not impact on landscape or townscape in the proposed area however additional landscape costs townscape may be associated with the sourcing of grit and salt elsewhere. Biodiversity This measure could cause high salt concentrations which may have an adverse effect on vegetation species. (-) Heritage This measure would not impact on any archaeologically sensitive features. Water environment Salting can change water quality due to increased levels of chloride. (-) Soils This measure would not impact on soils. Social Transport safety Improved winter management will help improve road user safety. Personal security The package is unlikely to have any impact on personal security. Permeability The scheme would not introduce any new areas of severance or restrictions to permeability for non-motorised users. Physical fitness The package of measures is unlikely to lead to any changes in travel by active modes. Social inclusion This measure improves the road conditions for users, aims to minimise accidents and maintain accessibility for communities to important services and facilities. No positive or negative discriminatory impact on any individual equality impact group. Equality, Diversity & Human Rights Acceptability, Feasibility, Deliverability and Risk Public acceptability: This measure is likely to attract public support. Acceptability to other stakeholders: This measure is likely to attract political support. Technical and operational feasibility: This measure is technically and operationally feasible. Financial affordability and deliverability: This measure is affordable in the short term. Risks: This measure would require collaborative working between relevant delivery bodies to oversee the implementation of improved highway network management during poor weather conditions. 1 Safer, easier and more reliable travel East-West in South Wales. Improved transport connections within Wales and to England, the Republic of 2 Ireland and the rest of Europe on all modes on the international transport network. 3 More effective and integrated use of alternatives to the M4, including other parts of the transport network and other modes of transport for local and longer distance journeys around Newport. 4 Best possible use of the existing M4, local road network and other transport networks. 5 More reliable journey times along the M4 corridor. Increased level of choice for all people making journeys within the transport 6 corridor by all modes between Magor and Castleton, commensurate with demand for alternatives. 7 Improved safety on the M4 Corridor between Magor and Castleton. 8 Improved air quality in areas next to the M4 around Newport. 9 Reduced disturbance to people from high noise levels, from all transport modes and traffic within the M4 corridor. 10 Reduced greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle and/or person kilometre. 11 Improved travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. 12 An M4 attractive for longer distance journeys that discourages local traffic use. 13 Improved traffic management in and around Newport on the M4 Corridor. 14 Easier access to local key services and residential and commercial centres. 15 A cultural shift in travel behaviour towards more sustainable choices. 45

47 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Worksheet Description Appraisal Measure 16: Manage HGV traffic This measure would see the greater regulation of HGV traffic on the M4 and local road network. In order to reduce delays caused by HGVs on the motorway and to make sure that HGV movement takes place on main roads to reduce the adverse impact of lorries in locations that are inappropriate for them, a phased HGV traffic management plan would be developed and implemented which may include: Distinctive HGV signing to encourage HGV traffic to use suitable alternative routes to the M4, depending on their destination; Development of a Freight Consolidation Centre for Newport to reduce retail deliveries to the city centre; HGV priority on major roads by introducing a vehicle priority lane scheme that allows HGVs the use of bus lanes where appropriate; On the motorway, prohibit certain vehicle types from overtaking; Fuel, parking and overnight stopping in suitable locations to discourage drivers leaving primary routes; and HGV weight or width restrictions to protect sensitive areas, towns and village centres, residential streets and rural lanes from the nuisance and danger caused by lorries, where better alternative routes exist. Slow moving HGV traffic and abnormal loads are often perceived to cause delays and safety concerns to car users on the motorway, as well as local road network. In particular the problems are perceived to be exacerbated when HGV traffic use running lanes to overtake other slow moving vehicles. Economic Impact The prohibiting of certain vehicle types from overtaking on the motorway and priority of HGVs on major roads (such as use of bus lanes), would see reduced congestion and improved journey time reliability for the majority of users. However, many HGVs operate fuel efficiency measures in terms of speed control, which may be adversely impacted by motorway lane restrictions. Social Impact Restricting HGVs to nearside motorway lanes and encouraging the use of priority lanes on the local road network will help reduce safety concerns. Reducing the impact of HGVs on local roads will also improve access to local facilities and services. Environmental Impact Many HGVs operate fuel efficiency practices by maintaining constant speed control. Motorway lane restrictions may hinder these practices and increase fuel consumption. However, by improving vehicle flows on the motorway and local road network overall; this would limit the impact of vehicles on pollution. However, levels would not improve significantly without a reduction in traffic volume, which this measure would not facilitate. Acceptability, Deliverability, Feasibility and Risk In 2010 the government considered changing the law to prohibit all HGVs over 3.5 tonnes from using the fast lanes of motorways, and restricting their speed to 60mph. Goods vehicles over 7.5 tonnes are already subject to a 60mph limit on motorways, and may not use the outside lane. The government has proposed banning all HGVs from the right-hand lane of motorways before, citing the impact on traffic congestion rather than variations in the road laws. In 2011 the measures were not implemented following a formal consultation with the Department for Transport (DfT) stating that the refusal of proposals for amending motorway speed limits and the extra 3rd lane use prohibitions for certain heavier vehicles is partly because it had not been possible to properly identify sufficient benefits that would outweigh the costs incurred in making such regulatory changes. More established and successful interventions include the Lorry Control Scheme in London, which takes the form of temporary controls on the movement of any heavy goods vehicles over 18 tonnes maximum gross weight at night and at weekends. The restrictions are in place on the use of heavy goods vehicles to help minimise noise pollution in residential areas during unsocial hours through restricted use of these roads. Successful Freight Consolidation Centre schemes have been implemented in the UK and Europe and have been shown to reduce the number of HGVs in city centres. However, effective operation requires support from local retailers and coordination with national supply chains which may be difficult to achieve in the short term. Compatibility with Package 3: Summary of Key Issues This measure would help the Package address safety issues on the M4 and local road network by better managing conflicts between HGV and general traffic. The on-line widening of the M4 would allow for this measure to help reduce traffic congestion on the M4 by managing HGV traffic on both the M4 and alternative routes. New lane capacity on the M4 will allow for HGV traffic to be prohibited from using running lanes. In addition, local priority and signage schemes would manage and divert (where appropriate) HGV traffic to use more suitable routes, depending on their destination. 46

48 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Table Appraisal against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance Criteria Measure 16: Manage HGV traffic Appraisal against Programme Goals (Transport Planning Objectives) Criteria Assessment Significance Economy Transport Economic Efficiency (TEE) Managing HGV traffic on the motorway and local highway network will see improved journey time reliability for the majority of users. Economic Activity and Location Impact (EALI) Many HGVs operate fuel efficiency measures in terms of speed control, which may be adversely impacted by motorway lane restrictions in particular. However, HGV use of bus lanes where appropriate on the local road network would help improve local accessibility and movement of freight. Environment Noise Any impact on noise levels is anticipated to be negligible. Local Air Quality Any impact on air pollution levels is anticipated to be negligible. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Any impact on vehicle emissions is anticipated to be negligible. Landscape and This measure would protect sensitive areas, towns and village centres, residential streets and rural lanes from the townscape nuisance and danger caused by HGV weight or width. Biodiversity There would be no impacts on biodiversity thus no ecological surveys need to be conducted. Heritage This measure would not impact on archaeologically sensitive areas. Water environment This measure would not impact on water environment. Soils This measure would not impact on soils. Social Transport safety Reducing HGV and general traffic conflict will help improve road safety conditions. Personal security There would be no significant personal security impacts. Permeability The scheme would not introduce any new areas of severance or restrictions to permeability for non-motorised users. Physical fitness This measure is unlikely to lead to any changes in travel by active modes. Social inclusion Reducing the impact of HGVs on local roads will also improve access to local facilities and services. Equality, Diversity & Human Rights No positive or negative discriminatory impact on any individual equality impact group. Acceptability, Feasibility, Deliverability and Risk Public acceptability: The general public are likely to support this measure which will help reduce HGV and general traffic conflict on the road network. Acceptability to other stakeholders: Many HGVs operate fuel efficiency practices by maintaining constant speed control. Motorway lane restrictions may hinder these practices and increase fuel consumption this may attract opposition from logistics companies. Technical and operational feasibility: The provision of HGV management measures is unlikely to pose any technical or operational challenges. Financial affordability and deliverability: This measure would be affordable and deliverable following the phased widening of the M4, which would provide additional road capacity to the benefit of accommodating traffic management measures. Risks: Regulatory changes will require commitment from Welsh Government. 1 Safer, easier and more reliable travel East-West in South Wales. Improved transport connections within Wales and to England, the Republic of 2 Ireland and the rest of Europe on all modes on the international transport network. 3 More effective and integrated use of alternatives to the M4, including other parts of the transport network and other modes of transport for local and longer distance journeys around Newport. 4 Best possible use of the existing M4, local road network and other transport networks. 5 More reliable journey times along the M4 corridor. Increased level of choice for all people making journeys within the transport 6 corridor by all modes between Magor and Castleton, commensurate with demand for alternatives. 7 Improved safety on the M4 Corridor between Magor and Castleton. 8 Improved air quality in areas next to the M4 around Newport. 9 Reduced disturbance to people from high noise levels, from all transport modes and traffic within the M4 corridor. 10 Reduced greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle and/or person kilometre. 11 Improved travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. 12 An M4 attractive for longer distance journeys that discourages local traffic use. 13 Improved traffic management in and around Newport on the M4 Corridor. 14 Easier access to local key services and residential and commercial centres. 15 A cultural shift in travel behaviour towards more sustainable choices. 47

49 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Worksheet Description Appraisal Measure 17: Use of ramp metering Subject to further assessment this measure could potentially see ramp metering at one or more of the following motorway entry slip roads (ramps): at J24; eastbound at J25a; westbound at J26; at J27; at J28; westbound at Junction 29a (A48M). The present criteria for assessing the suitability of a site relates to both the traffic and physical characteristics of the site. It is anticipated that not all the sites listed would be suitable in the current state without modification to the physical site layout (eg. length / alignment of slip roads) or without changes in traffic characteristics over time. Ramp metering is a method by which traffic seeking to gain access to a busy highway is controlled at the access (merge) point via traffic signals. This control aims to maximise the capacity of the highway and prevent traffic flow breakdown and the onset of congestion. The key features that would be introduced are: Traffic light signals on the entry slip road; Vehicle detection on the motorway main line and entry slip road to monitor congestion; Control equipment with control algorithms, which can adjust the timing of the lights based on traffic detected to help prevent queues from forming on the main carriageway; and Warning signs on the slip road. Economic Impact Perhaps the most comprehensive international study of the effectiveness of ramp metering as a traffic management tool was carried out by Minnesota Department of Transport in In response to a small number of local groups opposed to the use of ramp metering the Department of Transport turned off all 430 ramp metering sites in the Minneapolis/St Paul metropolitan area for six weeks to carry out an evaluation exercise. The results showed that highway speeds decreased by 14% (7.4mph), overall journey times increased compared with the ramp metering in operation, and journey travel was nearly twice as unreliable, whilst collisions increased by 26%. Therefore it is considered that ramp metering, where suitable along the M4 and A48M, would clearly bring journey time benefits and accident savings. Social Impact The controlled access of vehicles onto the motorway helps improve safety conditions. As demonstrated in Minnesota, collisions increased by 26% when ramp metering was discontinued for a 6 week period. Environmental Impact Helping maintain the flow of traffic and reducing congestion on the motorway will ultimately limit the impact of vehicles on pollution. However, levels would not improve significantly without a reduction in traffic volume, which this measure would not facilitate. Acceptability, Deliverability, Feasibility and Risk Managing access to the motorway network can have a knock-on effect on the neighbouring local road network, which needs to be taken into account in the design of a specific scheme. Ramp metering is already established and a proven benefit in the UK, where it has been successfully used on motorways at 30 sites, including the M42, in parts of the Midlands and the North, where it has been shown to reduce congestion and improve journey times on the motorway. It is also widely used in the United States, France, Belgium and the Netherlands. Compatibility with Package 3: Summary of Key Issues This measure would help to improve travel conditions on the M4 by managing access at M4 junctions, to help prioritise the M4 as a route for long distance strategic travel. 48

50 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Table Appraisal against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance Criteria Measure 17: Use of ramp metering Appraisal against Programme Goals (Transport Planning Objectives) Criteria Assessment Significance Economy Transport Economic It is anticipated that ramp metering, where appropriate, would bring journey time benefits and accident savings. Efficiency (TEE) Economic Activity Journey time savings through ramp metering would represent an economic benefit. There is also the potential for and Location Impact there to be localised queuing though, given that further study would be required before implementing ramp metering, the economic impact would be expected to be negligible. (EALI) Environment Noise Local Air Quality Greenhouse Gas Emissions This measure will help maintain the flow of traffic and reduce congestion on the motorway and thus reduce the potential for additional noise pollution. However, levels would not improve significantly without a reduction in traffic volume, which this measure would not facilitate. This measure will help maintain the flow of traffic and reduce congestion on the motorway and thus reduce the potential for additional air pollution. However, levels would not improve significantly without a reduction in traffic volume, which this measure would not facilitate. This measure will help to reduce congestion and maintain the flow of traffic. This will enable motorway traffic to operate more efficiently with consequent reduction in emissions. However, levels would not improve significantly without a reduction in traffic volume, which this measure would not facilitate. This measure would not impact on landscape and townscape. Landscape and townscape Biodiversity This measure would not encounter any ecological impacts and thus does not require ecological surveys. Heritage This measure would not impact on any archaeologically sensitive features. Water environment This measure would not impact on water environment. Soils This measure would not impact on soils. Social Transport safety The controlled access of vehicles onto the motorway will help improve safety conditions. Personal security No impact. Permeability This measure would not affect a number of existing public rights of way and local routes and thus not affecting pedestrians, cyclists and equestrians. Physical fitness This measure is unlikely to lead to any changes in travel by active modes. Social inclusion Local accessibility may be affected by ramp metering. Any potentially negative effects would be mitigated prior to implementing ramp metering. This measure could encourage people in using alternative routes for local journeys. Equality, Diversity No positive or negative discriminatory impact on any individual equality impact group. & Human Rights Acceptability, Feasibility, Deliverability and Risk Public acceptability: The general public are likely to support this measure which will improve traffic flows on the motorway road network. Where ramp metering may cause queuing and impact on the local road network there may be opposition from some local communities. Acceptability to other stakeholders: This measure is likely to improve traffic flows on the motorway road network and therefore is likely to attract support from logistics companies who use the M4 to transport freight. Technical and operational feasibility: This measure is likely to be feasible following the completed widening of the M4 to help lock in added capacity. Financial affordability and deliverability: This measure would to be deliverable following the completed widening of the M4. Risks: Managing access to the motorway network can have a knock-on effect on the neighbouring local road network, which needs to be taken into account in the design of a specific scheme. 1 Safer, easier and more reliable travel East-West in South Wales. Improved transport connections within Wales and to England, the Republic of 2 Ireland and the rest of Europe on all modes on the international transport network. 3 More effective and integrated use of alternatives to the M4, including other parts of the transport network and other modes of transport for local and longer distance journeys around Newport. 4 Best possible use of the existing M4, local road network and other transport networks. 5 More reliable journey times along the M4 corridor. Increased level of choice for all people making journeys within the transport 6 corridor by all modes between Magor and Castleton, commensurate with demand for alternatives. 7 Improved safety on the M4 Corridor between Magor and Castleton. 8 Improved air quality in areas next to the M4 around Newport. 9 Reduced disturbance to people from high noise levels, from all transport modes and traffic within the M4 corridor. 10 Reduced greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle and/or person kilometre. 11 Improved travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. 12 An M4 attractive for longer distance journeys that discourages local traffic use. 13 Improved traffic management in and around Newport on the M4 Corridor. 14 Easier access to local key services and residential and commercial centres. 15 A cultural shift in travel behaviour towards more sustainable choices. 49

51 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Worksheet Description Appraisal Measure 18: Provide additional train services to the north of Cardiff This measure would see an increase of services to the north of Cardiff and the South Wales Cardiff Valleys. This would be achieved through a variety of works throughout the Cardiff Valleys network. This measure is likely to reduce congestion travelling into Cardiff and the Valleys. An existing proposal by the Department for Transport (DfT) is for the provision of an extra 600 seats per hour into Cardiff through the high morning peak-hour, by This would be attained by lengthening trains and achieving an increase to 16 trains per hour from the current 12 trains per hour cap, through the Queen Street north to Cogan Junction central corridor. Cardiff Area Signal Renewal (CASR) plans to improve and upgrade the standard of services available on the Valley lines, through station upgrades at Cardiff Central, Cardiff Queen Street, Pontypridd, Caerphilly and Barry. This would support an improvement in services to the north of Cardiff. In addition, further expansion of the network in the future may include a passenger service extension from Aberdare to Hirwaun, and potentially a large Park & Ride at Abercynon station. In addition to central corridor works (between Queen Street and Cogan Junction), the introduction of south facing bay platforms will be necessary at Pontypridd and Caerphilly in order to deliver service enhancements. Self-containment of Cardiff Bay shuttle services at Cardiff Queen Street, by means of an east-side bay platform, will also be necessary. Double tracking of the Treforest curve at Canton will be required, and also a depot enlargement to cater for stabling of a significantly larger fleet in the long-term. At Cardiff Central an additional platform will be needed for Valleys use, in order to accommodate increased operating services. Some measures have already been successfully implemented, such as the additional half hourly service from Merthyr Tydfil to Cardiff. Economic Impact Increased capacity, frequency and reliability of services will encourage more commuters to travel into Cardiff via the train network. It should also ease congestion into Cardiff city centre, benefiting commuters and businesses alike. This measure would specifically benefit local accessibility. More services may also encourage commuters that travel further afield, beyond Newport, to switch to train travel should it be more frequent and reliable with better train connections. Social Impact This measure aims to provide more frequent services, targeted at the northern side of the Cardiff city region, and taking in the biggest population areas in the Valleys themselves at Pontypridd and Caerphilly. This will directly benefit people living in these communities by increasing transport mode choice and providing a quality public transport alternative for those without access to a car. Environmental Impact This measure would encourage modal shift of commuters from cars to trains, which will help reduce private vehicle use on Valleys roads into Cardiff and the associated pollution and emissions. Acceptability, Deliverability, Feasibility and Risk Provision for long-term Valleys growth has been anticipated by means of a suite of major joint DfT/Welsh Government funded enhancements to the Cardiff Area Signal Renewal programme. The draft determination by the Office of Rail Regulation in July 2008 confirmed the 19 million capital funding allocation for this objective. It is recommended that these continue in development in order to synchronise with the signals renewals programme - which is unlikely to be revised again until The cost of the South Wales Resignalling programme is being met by Network Rail at an estimated cost of 400m. Within that, the Cardiff Area Resignalling is estimated to cost some 200m. The cost of the additional enhancement programme for Queen Street- Cardiff Central-Cogan Junction is over 30m. The Welsh Assembly Government will meet the 7m costs of the works at Caerphilly, Pontypridd and Barry. Further work by the key rail delivery bodies to confirm infrastructure costing continues. Providing additional train services to the north of Cardiff will require expansion of the network including station upgrades, which will demand feasibility and risk studies at an individual project delivery level. Compatibility with Package 3: Summary of Key Issues Delivered in isolation, improving services to the north of Cardiff would improve accessibility to a large population into Cardiff and on to Newport and beyond; but would do little to reduce traffic congestion problems on the M4 alone. Although this measure would encourage modal shift from car to rail in communities to the north of Cardiff, this measure would rely heavily upon highway schemes including on-line widening to reduce traffic congestion along the M4 corridor as part of this Package. Encouraging people to use public transport instead of private vehicles during on-line M4 construction works will help reduce the adverse impact of disruption. 50

52 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Table Appraisal against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance Criteria Measure 18: Provide additional train services to the north of Cardiff Appraisal against Programme Goals (Transport Planning Objectives) Criteria Assessment Significance Economy Transport Economic Efficiency (TEE) Improving rail services north of Cardiff will benefit journey time reliability and accessibility to strategic locations from communities in the northern Cardiff and Valleys areas. Should this measure encourage modal shift, reduced Economic Activity and Location Impact (EALI) Environment Noise Local Air Quality Greenhouse Gas Emissions Landscape and townscape congestion and journey time reliability would also be expected on the M4 network. Operating additional services north of Cardiff will help improve accessibility to employment opportunities and labour forces in the South Wales Valleys. Improving accessibility between the Valleys and Cardiff will help boost the local and regional economy. Whilst running additional services would increase noise pollution, this measure will aim to encourage car users to shift their journeys onto rail. The use of electric trains in the longer term would help reduce noise pollution. Whilst running additional services would increase air pollution, this measure will aim to encourage car users to shift their journeys onto rail. The use of electric trains in the longer term would help reduce air pollution. Whilst running additional services would increase train vehicle emissions, this measure will aim to encourage car users to shift their journeys onto rail. The use of electric trains in the longer term would help reduce emissions. No additional land will be required for this measure. There will be no impacts on landscape and townscape. Biodiversity This measure would not encounter any ecological impacts and thus does not require ecological surveys. Heritage This measure would not impact on any archaeologically sensitive features. Water environment This measure would not impact on the water environment. This measure would be designed to have no adverse impact on flood risk. Soils This measure would not impact on soils. Social Transport safety This measure is likely to reduce the congestion travelling to Cardiff and the Valleys which will help enhance road user safety. Personal security No impact. Permeability The scheme would not introduce any new areas of severance or restrictions to permeability for non-motorised users. Physical fitness This measure is unlikely to lead to any changes in travel by active modes. Social inclusion This measure will directly benefit communities living in the Valleys in Pontypridd and Caerphilly and northern side of Cardiff by improving transport mode choice and local accessibility and thus benefit social equity. Nonmotorists in the Valley areas and northern Cardiff will have better access to public transport services. Equality, Diversity No impact. & Human Rights Acceptability, Feasibility, Deliverability and Risk Public acceptability: This measure is likely to attract public support. Acceptability to other stakeholders: This measure is likely to attract political support. Technical and operational feasibility: This measure would require a comprehensive series of network enhancements to accommodate additional capacity. A number of station upgrades and corridor works will be required, although such individual projects are likely to be feasible. Financial affordability and deliverability: This measure is affordable in the short to medium term. Risks: This measure would require collaborative working with train operators and Network Rail. (++) 1 Safer, easier and more reliable travel East-West in South Wales. Improved transport connections within Wales and to England, the Republic of 2 Ireland and the rest of Europe on all modes on the international transport network. 3 More effective and integrated use of alternatives to the M4, including other parts of the transport network and other modes of transport for local and longer distance journeys around Newport. 4 Best possible use of the existing M4, local road network and other transport networks. 5 More reliable journey times along the M4 corridor. Increased level of choice for all people making journeys within the transport 6 corridor by all modes between Magor and Castleton, commensurate with demand for alternatives. 7 Improved safety on the M4 Corridor between Magor and Castleton. 8 Improved air quality in areas next to the M4 around Newport. 9 Reduced disturbance to people from high noise levels, from all transport modes and traffic within the M4 corridor. 10 Reduced greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle and/or person kilometre. 11 Improved travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. 12 An M4 attractive for longer distance journeys that discourages local traffic use. 13 Improved traffic management in and around Newport on the M4 Corridor. 14 Easier access to local key services and residential and commercial centres. (++) 15 A cultural shift in travel behaviour towards more sustainable choices. 51

53 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Diagram / Plan Measure 18: Provide additional train services to the north of Cardiff 52

54 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Worksheet Description Appraisal Measure 19: Introduce Ebbw Vale rail link to Newport This measure would see the introduction of an hourly Ebbw Vale to Newport train service, in addition to the present Ebbw Vale to Cardiff service. An extension of the line from its current terminus station, Ebbw Vale Parkway, northwards into the town centre of Ebbw Vale is also under consideration. The Newport-Ebbw Vale service will be made possible by the upgrade of the eastern chord between Park Junction and Gaer Junction to passenger-signalled standards, together with the Main Lines facing crossover at Gaer Junction, and a turnback facility to use at or adjacent to Newport station. The longer-term upgrade of the branch on the Great Western Main Line (GWML) between Newport station and Gaer Junction would enable an additional hourly service to operate between Ebbw Vale and Newport. A short extension of the line northwards beyond the initial Ebbw Vale Parkway station into the town centre of Ebbw Vale would also be considered in the longer term. Economic Impact This measure would make Newport more accessible by train to commuters from the Ebbw Valley. This may increase business opportunities in Newport and access to employment within the Ebbw Valley area. Linking Ebbw Vale town centre, through an extension of the existing line at Ebbw Vale Parkway, may enhance this impact further, and furthermore, support regeneration activity in Ebbw Vale and the development of the Enterprise Zone. It is worthy of note that services from Ebbw Vale to Cardiff have attracted high levels of patronage. Social Impact Introducing an Ebbw Vale to Newport service would make services, facilities and employment centres in Newport more accessible to communities in the Ebbw Valley. Park & Ride facilities at stations, such as Ebbw Vale Parkway, will allow for car users, cyclists and bus users to access train services from the local area into Newport. Additional stations that may be opened (e.g. Ebbw Vale town centre station) would improve this further. Environmental Impact This measure would enhance travel choices and encourage modal shift thus relieving congestion and associated environmental impacts along routes between Ebbw Vale and Newport. One such area that may benefit from eased congestion due to an Ebbw Vale Newport train service could be Junction 28 of the M4, where the main road from Ebbw Vale to Newport (A467/A4046) meets the A48 bringing traffic from the West (Cardiff) into Newport, and also the M4 junction to head East (around Newport) or West (towards Cardiff and beyond). This may also serve the wider community in the area, with Park & Ride facilities at stations (such as Rogerstone with car park facilities and cycle storage facilities) encouraging commuters to access the train services to then travel, congestion free, into Newport. Acceptability, Deliverability, Feasibility and Risk February 2008 saw the introduction of new hourly train services running directly between Cardiff Central and six new stations at Rogerstone, Risca, Crosskeys, Newbridge, Llanhilleth and Ebbw Vale Parkway, over a former single-track freight line. The current Ebbw Vale to Cardiff service exceeded passenger demand forecasts when it opened it early 2008 demonstrating the actual commercial viability of this measure. This proposed service would increase frequencies on the branch line and would have a capacity implication on mainline services through Newport, as the GWML would have to additionally accommodate the extra hourly services over the single-track eastern chord between Park Junction and Gaer Junction (currently a freight-only line) and then into Newport station. This measure will rely upon the completion of the Gaer Junction reinstatement scheme. This currently has approval from Welsh Government. The extension of the line into the town centre of Ebbw Vale is currently undergoing feasibility studies independently of the Ebbw Vale to Newport scheme. Compatibility with Package 3: Summary of Key Issues Delivered in isolation, improving services to Newport from the Ebbw Valley would improve accessibility to a large population; and may help reduce traffic levels using Junction 28; but it could have a limited impact on reducing traffic congestion problems on the M4 as a whole. As part of Package 3, delivered with other rail improvements this measure would aim to encourage modal shift from car to rail in communities to the north of Newport. This measure would primarily benefit local accessibility, whilst also increasing and improving opportunities for long distance service interchange from Newport station for communities north of Newport. Encouraging people to use public transport instead of private vehicles during on-line M4 construction works will help reduce the adverse impact of disruption. 53

55 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Table Measure 19: Introduce Ebbw Vale rail link to Newport Appraisal against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance Criteria Appraisal against Programme Goals (Transport Planning Objectives) Criteria Assessment Significance Economy Transport Economic Efficiency (TEE) Developing rail services between Newport and Ebbw Vale will improve journey time reliability and accessibility to communities north of Newport. Should this measure encourage modal shift, improved congestion and journey Economic Activity and Location Impact (EALI) Environment Noise Local Air Quality time reliability would also be expected on the M4 network. Improving links north of Newport will help improve accessibility to employment opportunities and labour forces in the Ebbw Vale area. Improving accessibility between Ebbw Vale and Newport will help boost the local and regional economy. Whilst running additional services would increase noise pollution, this measure will aim to encourage car users to shift their journeys onto rail. The use of electric trains in the longer term would help reduce noise pollution. Whilst running additional services would increase air pollution, this measure will aim to encourage car users to shift their journeys onto rail. The use of electric trains in the longer term would help reduce air pollution. Whilst running additional services would increase train vehicle emissions, this measure will aim to encourage car users to shift their journeys onto rail. The use of electric trains in the longer term would help reduce emissions. No additional land will be required for this measure. There will be no impacts on landscape and townscape. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Landscape and townscape Biodiversity This measure would not encounter any ecological impacts and thus does not require ecological surveys. Heritage This measure would not impact on any archaeologically sensitive features. Water environment This measure would be designed to have no adverse impact on flood risk. Soils This measure will likely cause no impact on the soil environment. Social Transport safety This measure is likely to relieve the congestion along routes between Ebbw Vale and Newport which will help enhance road user safety. In addition, trains are generally considered to be a safer form of transport than road, with fewer accidents per km. It is therefore expected that with the modal shift achieved, this measure will result in a positive impact. Personal security No impact. Permeability Physical fitness Social inclusion The measure would not introduce any new areas of severance or restrictions to permeability for non-motorised users. A modal shift towards public transport often means that people use active forms of transport at the beginning and/or end of their journey. It is therefore, likely that the modal shift which can be expected from this measure will lead to improvements in physical fitness. This measure will improve choice and thus benefit social equity. Park & Ride facilities at stations, such as Rogerstone, will allow for motorists, cyclists and bus users to access train services from the local area into Newport. Equality, Diversity No positive or negative discriminatory impact on any individual equality impact group. & Human Rights Acceptability, Feasibility, Deliverability and Risk Public acceptability: This measure is likely to attract public support. Acceptability to other stakeholders: This measure is likely to attract political support. Technical and operational feasibility: This measure is technically and operationally feasible. Financial affordability and deliverability: This measure is affordable in the short to medium term. Risks: This measure would require collaborative working with train operators and Network Rail. (++) 1 Safer, easier and more reliable travel East-West in South Wales. Improved transport connections within Wales and to England, the Republic of 2 Ireland and the rest of Europe on all modes on the international transport network. 3 More effective and integrated use of alternatives to the M4, including other parts of the transport network and other modes of transport for local and longer distance journeys around Newport. 4 Best possible use of the existing M4, local road network and other transport networks. 5 More reliable journey times along the M4 corridor. Increased level of choice for all people making journeys within the transport 6 corridor by all modes between Magor and Castleton, commensurate with demand for alternatives. 7 Improved safety on the M4 Corridor between Magor and Castleton. 8 Improved air quality in areas next to the M4 around Newport. 9 Reduced disturbance to people from high noise levels, from all transport modes and traffic within the M4 corridor. 10 Reduced greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle and/or person kilometre. 11 Improved travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. 12 An M4 attractive for longer distance journeys that discourages local traffic use. 13 Improved traffic management in and around Newport on the M4 Corridor. 14 Easier access to local key services and residential and commercial centres. (++) 15 A cultural shift in travel behaviour towards more sustainable choices. 54

56 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Diagram / Plan Measure 19: Introduce Ebbw Vale rail link to Newport 55

57 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Worksheet Description Appraisal Measure 20: Train lengthening This measure would increase the length of trains that are operating services through South Wales, in order to provide extra capacity on the network and attract greater patronage on targeted rail services. Train lengthening will increase capacity of rail services in peak hours to and from the main commuter centres of Cardiff, Newport and Bristol. Current services between Cardiff and Bristol Temple Meads in particular are overcrowded at peak times and an increase in train length would provide extra capacity for passengers. Network Rail shows demand for rail has increased in Bristol by 90% over the last 10 years, with 11 million passengers travelling to and from the city annually. A significant part of the commuter population into Bristol comes from South Wales Cardiff, Newport and Severn Tunnel Junction with passenger numbers predicted to increase further into the future. Train lengthening would help to cope with this predicted growth, as well as current overcrowding issues, especially if supported by increased train frequencies. The future electrification of the Great Western Main Line to Cardiff will provide more reliable and faster trains, and could improve services between South Wales and Bristol once the route is electrified. This could also act to help ease current overcrowding, making train travel more appealing to commuters who currently use private vehicles along the M4. Economic Impact Increasing the length of trains will provide extra capacity for commuters during peak travel times. This may encourage greater patronage and help train services become more commercially attractive for operators. If capacity improvements facilitate modal shift, this could have economic benefits by reducing the costs of traffic congestion. Social Impact Increased length of trains would provide a greater capacity for passengers on trains and reduce overcrowding. This will make the experience of train travel more appealing helping reduce passenger stress. Reducing overcrowding may also help passengers to feel safer when travelling. Increasing the level of transport choice will also benefit social equity. Environmental Impact This measure may see a shift of commuters from car travel to train travel, helping reduce car use and the associated emissions and pollution along the M4 corridor. Electrification will also help reduce vehicle noise and air pollution, particularly whilst waiting at stations. Acceptability, Deliverability, Feasibility and Risk Existing peak hour services between Newport and Bristol are crowded, indicating there is a significant commuter market between the Newport area and Bristol. The measure is also likely to be acceptable - the South West Rail Planning Assessment suggests that lengthening existing crowded trains is recommended to cope with the significant movement of commuters into Bristol by rail and car from South Wales. The Cardiff Area Signalling Renewal investment and platform lengthening programme means that the South Wales Valleys network is currently being prepared to cope with longer trains running into Cardiff from the Valleys. The planned electrification of the Great Western Main Line, due to be completed by 2017, will also include the route from Cardiff to Bristol Temple Meads. This will give opportunity to introduce new electrified trains with higher seating capacity, which will help ease overcrowding and passenger comfort. Consideration of the current franchise arrangement is required for delivery purposes. Compatibility with Package 3: Summary of Key Issues Lengthening trains between Cardiff and Bristol may be an alternative to increasing train frequency for this route, which is difficult to deliver due to current infrastructure and signalling constraints. Rolling stock provision and replacement needs to be integrated with plans for electrification and capacity improvement where required. At a higher level, lengthening trains would facilitate and attract greater patronage; but would do little to reduce traffic congestion problems on the M4 if delivered alone. Although this measure would encourage modal shift from car to rail, this measure would still rely heavily upon other investments in rail service quality. Ultimately, this measure relies upon the delivery of major highway projects to enhance capacity and reduce traffic congestion along the M4 corridor as part of this Package. The lengthening of trains could play a more important role in the longer term to address anticipated population and demand growth. Encouraging people to use public transport instead of private vehicles during on-line M4 construction works will help reduce the adverse impact of disruption. 56

58 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Table Appraisal against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance Criteria Measure 20: Train lengthening Appraisal against Programme Goals (Transport Planning Objectives) Criteria Assessment Significance Economy Transport Economic Efficiency (TEE) Lengthening trains on key services will provide additional capacity, aiming to facilitate additional passengers and make travelling by train a better experience. Whilst this measure will enhance accessibility by rail, it could also Economic Activity and Location Impact (EALI) Environment Noise Local Air Quality Greenhouse Gas Emissions Landscape and townscape encourage modal shift and thus improve congestion and journey time reliability on the M4 network. Providing additional capacity on the rail network would aim to encourage greater patronage levels, thus reducing capacity demand on the highway network and reducing the threat of traffic congestion to the Welsh economy. Increasing carriages on existing rail services can help to reduce car use and thus reduce associated noise pollution along the M4 corridor. Increasing carriages on existing rail services can help to reduce car use and thus improve local air quality along the M4 corridor. Increasing carriages on existing rail services can help to reduce car use and thus reduce CO² emissions along the M4 corridor. Increasing carriages on existing rail services is likely to have a negligible impact on landscape and townscape. Biodiversity Increasing carriages on existing rail services is likely to have a negligible impact on biodiversity. Heritage Increasing carriages on existing rail services is likely to have a negligible impact on heritage. Water environment This measure would not impact on the water environment. This measure would be designed to have no adverse impact on flood risk. Soils Increasing carriages on existing rail services is likely to have a negligible impact on soils. Social Transport safety Train is generally considered to be a safer form of transport than road, with fewer accidents per km. It is therefore expected that with the modal shift achieved, this measure will result in a positive impact. Personal security No impact. Permeability The measure would not introduce any new areas of severance or restrictions to permeability for non-motorised Physical fitness Social inclusion users. This measure could cause a modal shift from car travel to train travel and maybe even encourage people to take the bike on the train. This measure would provide greater capacity for passengers on trains and reduce overcrowding, making the experience of train travel more appealing, helping reduce passenger stress. Increasing the level of transport choice will also benefit social equity. The lengthening of trains would play a more important role in the longer term to address anticipated population and demand growth. There may also be opportunities for the rail companies to reduce individual fares, thus making train travel affordable to more people. Equality, Diversity No impact. & Human Rights Acceptability, Feasibility, Deliverability and Risk Public acceptability: This measure is likely to attract public support. Acceptability to other stakeholders: This measure is likely to attract political support. Technical and operational feasibility: The Cardiff Area Signalling Renewal investment and platform lengthening programme means that the South Wales Valleys network is currently being prepared to cope with longer trains running into Cardiff from the Valleys. Additional stability for longer trains is required, in additional to station improvements and staffing requirements where necessary. Financial affordability and deliverability: This measure is affordable in the short to medium term. Risks: This measure would require collaborative working with train operators and Network Rail. (++) 1 Safer, easier and more reliable travel East-West in South Wales. Improved transport connections within Wales and to England, the Republic of 2 Ireland and the rest of Europe on all modes on the international transport network. 3 More effective and integrated use of alternatives to the M4, including other parts of the transport network and other modes of transport for local and longer distance journeys around Newport. 4 Best possible use of the existing M4, local road network and other transport networks. 5 More reliable journey times along the M4 corridor. Increased level of choice for all people making journeys within the transport 6 corridor by all modes between Magor and Castleton, commensurate with demand for alternatives. 7 Improved safety on the M4 Corridor between Magor and Castleton. 8 Improved air quality in areas next to the M4 around Newport. 9 Reduced disturbance to people from high noise levels, from all transport modes and traffic within the M4 corridor. 10 Reduced greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle and/or person kilometre. 11 Improved travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. 12 An M4 attractive for longer distance journeys that discourages local traffic use. 13 Improved traffic management in and around Newport on the M4 Corridor. 14 Easier access to local key services and residential and commercial centres. 15 A cultural shift in travel behaviour towards more sustainable choices. 57

59 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Worksheet Description Appraisal Measure 21: Improve train frequencies This measure would see the planning and delivery of a phased programme to improve train frequencies and in the medium to long term, provide faster and greener vehicles as part of this measure. Implementation would also require timetabling strategies and some infrastructure investment in order for the route to accommodate greater capacity and vehicles with increased speeds. The electrification of the Great Western Main Line (GWML) would support the delivery of this measure. Key target corridor areas where train frequency improvements would impact most positively on addressing traffic congestion by achieving sufficient modal shift, would include: Swansea to Newport; Cardiff to London; Cardiff to Bristol; and Cardiff to Birmingham. The future electrification of the Great Western Main Line between London and Cardiff will lead to improved services along the whole route, including journeys from South Wales to Bristol. More seats on trains, quicker journey times, and greater reliability will improve services as well as supporting more frequent services along the electrified routes. Further consideration is needed of planned capacity improvements, including: Cardiff Stations (as part of Cardiff Area Signalling Renewals); Half-hourly services on Valley Lines; Local capacity improvements to junctions and lines on the network; Turnback facilities; Line speed improvements on freight/relief lines. Economic Impact Improving train frequencies will increase accessibility to a range of urban centres and communities, ultimately increasing the level of choice for commuters and other passengers. Where urban centres benefit from higher quality train services, economic growth and economic investment could be enhanced. Faster train journeys will also aid such growth, especially on major routes such as Cardiff to London, or Cardiff to Bristol. Social Impact A higher frequency of trains operating on key routes will benefit commuters and passengers by increasing the level of choice to community services and employment centres. Overall this measure will increase accessibility and promote social equity. More frequent trains would also mean that current overcrowding problems would be eased on the trains used at peak times of day. The overcrowding issues would be greatly reduced by having more available seats on offer from the increased train services available, which would also help future growth and act as an incentive for modal shift from private vehicles to train services. Environmental Impact More frequent train services could attract modal shift and result in reduced traffic levels, reduced congestion on the M4 and within city centres, helping reduce emissions and pollution. Electrified train services will reduce air and noise pollution from vehicles on the track side and particularly when waiting at stations. Acceptability, Deliverability, Feasibility and Risk The possible investment in the speed upgrade of the Relief Lines from the Severn Tunnel to Cardiff, and the enhancements to Newport train station would support this measure s implementation. However, more services would require additional signalling and track capacity between Bath, Bristol Temple Meads and through the Severn Tunnel, due to the interaction between the mix of existing services and the route s overall capacity. A further planned enhancement is the reinstatement of the bay platform 2 and an extension of platform 13 at Bristol Temple Meads, which would also provide capacity improvement. However, track, signalling and junction constraints north of Bristol would also have to be improved if this capacity upgrade were to be effective. Recent/current signalling renewals provide significant improvements to the GWML and connections with the Valley Lines. The following Signalling Renewals schemes will help assist improving train frequencies: Port Talbot East (complete); Newport Area (complete); and Cardiff Area (to be completed by 2017). In the longer term, electrification of the GWML between Cardiff and London will allow for new electrified trains to operate between Cardiff and Bristol helping reduce journey times further and potentially providing the infrastructure for increases in rail capacity. Compatibility with Package 3: Summary of Key Issues Improving train frequencies would improve help encourage modal shift from car to rail; but would do little to reduce traffic congestion problems on the M4 alone unless significant investment was made in holistically improving rail services and facilities. As such, this measure would rely heavily upon highway schemes including on-line widening to reduce traffic congestion along the M4 corridor as part of this Package. Encouraging people to use public transport instead of private vehicles during on-line M4 construction works will help reduce the adverse impact of disruption. 58

60 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Table Appraisal against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance Criteria Measure 21: Improve train frequencies Appraisal against Programme Goals (Transport Planning Objectives) Criteria Assessment Significance Economy Transport Economic Efficiency (TEE) Increasing the frequency of trains on key services will provide additional capacity, aiming to facilitate additional passengers and improve journey time reliability. Whilst this measure will enhance accessibility by rail, it could (++) Economic Activity and Location Impact (EALI) Environment Noise Local Air Quality also encourage modal shift and thus improve congestion and journey time reliability on the M4 network. Providing additional services on the rail network would aim to encourage greater patronage levels, thus reducing capacity demand on the highway network and reducing the threat of traffic congestion to the Welsh economy. Whilst running additional services would increase noise pollution, this measure will aim to encourage car users to shift their journeys onto rail. The use of electric trains in the longer term would help reduce noise pollution. Whilst running additional services would increase air pollution, this measure will aim to encourage car users to shift their journeys onto rail. The use of electric trains in the longer term would help reduce air pollution. Whilst running additional services would increase train vehicle emissions, this measure will aim to encourage car users to shift their journeys onto rail. The use of electric trains in the longer term would help reduce emissions. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Landscape and Increasing train frequency on existing rail services is likely to have a negligible impact on landscape and townscape townscape. Biodiversity Increasing train frequency on existing rail services is likely to have a negligible impact on biodiversity. Heritage Increasing train frequency on existing rail services is likely to have a negligible impact on archaeological sites. Water environment Increasing train frequency on existing rail services is likely to have a negligible impact on water environment. Soils Increasing train frequency on existing rail services is likely to have a negligible impact on soils. Social Transport safety Train is generally considered to be a safer form of transport than road, with fewer accidents per km. It is therefore expected that with the modal shift achieved, this measure will result in a positive impact. Personal security No impact. Permeability The measure would not introduce any new areas of severance or restrictions to permeability for non-motorised Physical fitness Social inclusion users. A modal shift towards public transport often means that people use active forms of transport at the beginning and/or end of their journey. It is therefore likely that the modal shift which can be expected from this measure will lead to improvements in physical fitness. This measure will improve choice and thus benefit social equity. This measure will benefit non-motorised users through increased choice. No impact. Equality, Diversity & Human Rights Acceptability, Feasibility, Deliverability and Risk Public acceptability: This measure is likely to attract public support. Acceptability to other stakeholders: This measure is likely to attract political support. Technical and operational feasibility: This measure is technically and operationally feasible, although infrastructure improvements and timetabling arrangements would need to be subject to feasibility studies at an individual project level. Financial affordability and deliverability: This measure is affordable in the short to medium term. The electrification of the GWML would support the delivery of this measure. Risks: This measure would require collaborative working with train operators and Network Rail. 1 Safer, easier and more reliable travel East-West in South Wales. Improved transport connections within Wales and to England, the Republic of (++) 2 Ireland and the rest of Europe on all modes on the international transport network. 3 More effective and integrated use of alternatives to the M4, including other parts of the transport network and other modes of transport for local and longer distance journeys around Newport. (++) 4 Best possible use of the existing M4, local road network and other transport networks. 5 More reliable journey times along the M4 corridor. Increased level of choice for all people making journeys within the transport (++) 6 corridor by all modes between Magor and Castleton, commensurate with demand for alternatives. 7 Improved safety on the M4 Corridor between Magor and Castleton. 8 Improved air quality in areas next to the M4 around Newport. 9 Reduced disturbance to people from high noise levels, from all transport modes and traffic within the M4 corridor. 10 Reduced greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle and/or person kilometre. 11 Improved travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. 12 An M4 attractive for longer distance journeys that discourages local traffic use. 13 Improved traffic management in and around Newport on the M4 Corridor. 14 Easier access to local key services and residential and commercial centres. (++) 15 A cultural shift in travel behaviour towards more sustainable choices. (++) 59

61 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Worksheet Description Appraisal Measure 22: Transfer road freight onto rail This measure would see the development and delivery of a phased programme to encourage the logistics industry to transfer a significant proportion of road freight onto rail, where appropriate. Rail freight is a key over-land mover of bulky goods, in particular for the energy and heavy industries. Currently, rail freight delivers 90% of all coal for power generation, 80% of all construction stone for the Greater London area, 25% of all deep-sea containers, and delivers goods such as groceries, furniture, food, and electrical equipment. To encourage rail freight, it is clearly necessary for paths to be available for running freight trains, but in some parts of the rail network capacity pinch points need to be addressed, which currently have an adverse effect on both passenger and freight operations. The available capacity is determined by a combination of signalling and track infrastructure factors. This programme would involve staged plans to increase rail network capacity and incentivise the logistics industry to use rail to transfer bulky goods. This is encouraged and supported by the Mode Shift Revenue Support (MSRS) scheme (formerly the Rail Environmental Benefit Procurement Scheme), which is run by grants from the Department for Transport (DfT). The scheme assists companies with the operating costs associated with running rail freight instead of road (in cases where rail is more expensive than road). It is designed to facilitate and support modal shift, generating environmental and wider social benefits from reduced HGV journeys on the roads. The electrification of the GWML will also aid the effective movement of freight by rail, through improving capacity and frequency conditions on the network. Economic Impact In the movement of bulky goods in particular, rail has clear economic advantages over road transport. Making efficient use of the rail network for freight transport could help reduce HGV traffic on the M4 corridor, in addition to improving journey times associated with freight transport operations. This could ultimately lead to reduced congestion on the road network, which would also deliver associated positive economic benefits. Social Impact By reducing the potential for conflicts between large vehicles and car users, road safety would be improved with the transfer of existing road-based movements to rail. There could however be some tension between this measure and desires to develop passenger services on the rail network to assist in meeting social (or economic) outcomes. Environmental Impact There are positive environmental impacts to be realised by transferring goods from road to rail. A typical freight train can remove 50 goods vehicles from the road network. Moreover, although varying by commodity and with load factors, a tonne of freight carried by rail produces at least 80% less carbon dioxide than transport by road. Acceptability, Deliverability, Feasibility and Risk Regular interval services which are desirable for passengers can have an impact on the number or timing of freight paths. This can, in turn, impact on freight operators flexibility, though there is usually scope to include paths for freight if timetabling is carefully managed. Another important factor is loading gauge, determining how wide and high the rail vehicles are that can safely travel a route. The loading gauge on key lines in Wales is adequate for the majority of traditional freight; however, there is an increasing use of larger containers by maritime shippers that require a larger loading gauge. Network Rail s Freight RUS includes the longer-term aspiration to provide greater clearance to South Wales which would be required to optimise the impacts of this measure. Rail freight has grown rapidly in the last ten years and the Network Rail Freight Route Utilisation Strategy (RUS) forecasts further national growth of up to 30% the equivalent of an extra 240 freight trains per day over the next ten years. For this additional demand to be met by road freight, an extra 1.5 million lorry journeys on the roads would be required each year. By reducing road vehicle conflicts, there would be significant public support for freight traffic being moved by rail through the likely reduction in HGV traffic in particular. Compatibility with Package 3: Summary of Key Issues This measure would be supported by general improvements in rail infrastructure which would not only benefit passenger services but rail freight movement too. For example, there are opportunities for rail freight in resignalling schemes, which could include enhancements to the benefit of both passenger and freight services. At a higher level, this measure would have to be very effective in removing a significant percentage of HGV traffic from road onto rail in order to effectively address the traffic congestion problems on the M4 corridor. Whilst in the long term this may be achievable, in the shorter to medium term, this measure would rely heavily upon highway and traffic management schemes including on-line widening to reduce traffic congestion and HGV conflict along the M4 corridor as part of this Package. Encouraging the movement of freight by rail opposed to road, particularly during on-line M4 construction works will help reduce the adverse impact of disruption. 60

62 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Table Appraisal against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance Criteria Measure 22: Transfer road freight onto rail Appraisal against Programme Goals (Transport Planning Objectives) Criteria Assessment Significance Economy Transport Economic Efficiency (TEE) Encouraging road freight to use rail to transport goods aims to address highway capacity through reduced HGV use of the motorway and local road network. This will help improve traffic flows and associated journey time (++) Economic Activity and Location Impact (EALI) Environment Noise Local Air Quality Greenhouse Gas Emissions reliability. Shifting road freight onto rail will aim to improve the efficient movement of freight. Whilst many goods currently delivered on the road network may be possible to transport via rail, this will depend on the nature and destination of the good being delivered. As such, the implications on trade will need to be considered by appropriate delivery bodies. Whilst running additional services to transport freight by rail would increase noise pollution, this measure will aim to reduce journeys made by HGVs on the road network, which tend to create greater noise levels than standard cars. The use of electric trains in the longer term would help reduce noise pollution. Whilst running additional services to transport freight by rail would increase air pollution, this measure will aim to reduce journeys made by HGVs on the road network, which tend to impact on air pollution to a greater extent than standard cars. The use of electric trains in the longer term would help reduce air pollution. Whilst running additional services to transport freight by rail would increase vehicle emissions, this measure will aim to reduce journeys and associated emissions caused by HGV traffic on the road network, which tend to emit higher vehicle emissions than standard cars. The use of electric trains in the longer term would help reduce emissions. There may be a need for additional railway infrastructure to accommodate freight movement, including depots and track. This need would be explored during project level development. Landscape and townscape Biodiversity There would be negligible impacts on biodiversity. Heritage There would be negligible impacts on heritage. Water environment There would be negligible impacts on water environment. Soils There would be negligible impacts on soils. Social Transport safety Reducing the volume of HGV traffic will help reduce general traffic and HGV traffic conflict to benefit safety. Personal security No impact. Permeability The measure would not introduce any new areas of severance or restrictions to permeability for non-motorised users. Physical fitness This measure is unlikely to lead to any changes in travel by active modes. Social inclusion There could be conflict between desires to develop passenger services to assist in meeting social (or economic) outcomes on the rail network. Additional freight movements could adversely impact on passenger services if double handling requirements are not addressed. Equality, Diversity No positive or negative discriminatory impact on any individual equality impact group. & Human Rights Acceptability, Feasibility, Deliverability and Risk Public acceptability: The general public are likely to support any measure that results in reduced HGV use of the motorway and local road network. Acceptability to other stakeholders: Shifting road freight onto rail may have implications for businesses and this measure will need commitment from logistics companies and business groups to deliver. Technical and operational feasibility: Increasing demand on the rail network will require capacity pinch points to be addressed. Gauge clearance and timetabling issues with passenger services will also need to be resolved further to increased operations on the rail network. Financial affordability and deliverability: Affordability will rely on a review of works required to address potential capacity demand implications of the measure. Whilst many goods currently delivered on the road network may be possible to transport via rail, this will depend on the nature and destination of the good being delivered. The electrification of the GWML will aid the effective movement of freight by rail. Risks: Shifting road freight onto rail may have implications for rail capacity and this measure will need commitment from operators and Network Rail in particular to deliver. 1 Safer, easier and more reliable travel East-West in South Wales. Improved transport connections within Wales and to England, the Republic of 2 Ireland and the rest of Europe on all modes on the international transport network. 3 More effective and integrated use of alternatives to the M4, including other parts of the transport network and other modes of transport for local and longer distance journeys around Newport. (++) 4 Best possible use of the existing M4, local road network and other transport networks. 5 More reliable journey times along the M4 corridor. Increased level of choice for all people making journeys within the transport 6 corridor by all modes between Magor and Castleton, commensurate with demand for alternatives. 7 Improved safety on the M4 Corridor between Magor and Castleton. 8 Improved air quality in areas next to the M4 around Newport. 9 Reduced disturbance to people from high noise levels, from all transport modes and traffic within the M4 corridor. 10 Reduced greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle and/or person kilometre. 11 Improved travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. 12 An M4 attractive for longer distance journeys that discourages local traffic use. 13 Improved traffic management in and around Newport on the M4 Corridor. 14 Easier access to local key services and residential and commercial centres. 15 A cultural shift in travel behaviour towards more sustainable choices. 61

63 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Worksheet Description Appraisal Measure 23: Use of systematic and enforced bus priority measures on the local road network This measure would see the preparation and delivery of a comprehensive programme to introduce bus priority measures on the local road network, in order to significantly enhance local accessibility by public transport. A holistic strategy would be adopted and bus priority measures would include bus lanes, bus gates and other priority measures on the local road network, with the aim of minimising delays and improving the reliability of bus services, crucial to encouraging greater use of buses. Bus lanes in particular would also bring benefits to the local road network by prioritising travel for buses, coaches, motorbikes, emergency vehicles and licensed taxis. Of particular focus will be the key radial routes into the City centre. To the east, Corporation Road, Chepstow Road and Caerleon Road Corridors leading to Newport Bridge, to the west Cardiff Road, Kingsway and Stow Hill Corridors, and to the north, Malpas Road corridor. The aim of bus priority measures is to result in time savings for bus users and encourage modal shift to reduce the volume of traffic congestion on the local road network caused by private vehicles. Many motorists cite reliable bus services as a prerequisite for leaving their car at home. Bus priority measures assist buses through traffic, with more consistent journey times helping deliver timetable reliability. Improvements to the local bus network would see the Welsh Government work collaboratively with Newport City Council and bus operators, in order to develop valuable schemes. This partnership would also seek to identify opportunities for investment in wider community transport benefits such as the NewLink Community Transport Scheme. Economic Impact Experience from schemes around the country shows that bus lanes may reduce bus travel times by up to 7 to 9 minutes along a 10 kilometre congested route and also improve their reliability. Reliability means buses operate in accordance with their timetables on every journey which is important to bus users. Measures to assist buses in metropolitan city areas commonly have halved the variation in journey times that operators experienced in that corridor, enabling them to operate their buses more efficiently. By introducing bus priority with other improvements, services can become more attractive to potential passengers. For example, a comprehensive quality corridor initiative in a major conurbation delivered a 75% increase in bus passengers over 5 years, with 20% being new customers. Social Impact Better bus services in our towns and cities contribute towards the regeneration and revitalisation of both the business community and our living areas. An efficient, reliable bus service can be an attractive alternative to those who have access to a vehicle. Furthermore, an efficient bus service ensures social inclusion by providing access to jobs, education, health, social and leisure services to those without access to a vehicle. A wide variety of people use buses but many people, especially older people, children, people with disabilities, women and the less well off, are often dependent upon having a reliable bus service. A bus priority scheme introduced in north and east London in 1991 has also shown a fall in road casualties of some 36%. Environmental Impact Bus priority measures can contribute positively to the environment by directly reducing number of car trips into a town or city centre, thus reducing congestion, noise and vibration and alleviating pollution hotspots. Bus priority measures can also improve the environment for those travelling by bike or foot. However, the implementation of such measures can have adverse impact on general traffic conditions. Acceptability, Deliverability, Feasibility and Risk The Government has consistently made it clear that buses have a crucial part to play in present and future transport policy. This approach requires strengthening in order to encourage progression. The potential benefit of the bus can be stifled by traffic congestion. Local authorities and bus operators need to work in partnership to make buses a more attractive alternative to the car by releasing them from the congestion delays experienced by other road users. Other measures are also being used to encourage bus use, including capital funding through the local transport plan process, concessionary fares schemes, the development of Quality Bus Partnerships, real time information and timetable information systems. These approaches should be considered in light of other bus priority measures as a package of improvements. Compatibility with Package 3: Summary of Key Issues The phased on-line widening of the M4 aims to secure the route for long distance eastwest traffic. It is envisaged that the introduction of bus priority measures will help improve local accessibility following the completion of on-line widening works, in addition to other local highway network enhancements. Consideration of other road users, including pedestrians and cyclists in the design of bus priority measures is likely to result in additional cost effective solutions. Encouraging people to use public transport instead of private vehicles during on-line M4 construction works will help reduce the adverse impact of disruption. 62

64 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Table Measure 23: Use of systematic and enforced bus priority measures on the local road network Appraisal against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance Criteria Appraisal against Programme Goals (Transport Planning Objectives) Criteria Assessment Significance Economy Transport Economic Efficiency (TEE) The development and enhancement of local bus priority measures will help improve accessibility and journey times to local centres by public transport. Economic Activity and Location Impact (EALI) Environment Noise Local Air Quality Greenhouse Gas Emissions Improving accessibility to local centres by public transport will help attract a greater number of visitors to local shops, facilities and services. This measure will also benefit people who may be disadvantaged from accessing employment opportunities because of a lack of available transport. This measure will help reduce the adverse impact of disruption caused by on-line widening to the M4 on the economy by helping reduce traffic volumes. It is envisaged that this measure will encourage modal shift and thus reduce the number of people using private vehicles to access local centres. This will help reduce total noise levels, whilst the use of electric public transport vehicles in the longer term would further reduce the impact. It is envisaged that this measure will encourage modal shift and thus reduce the number of people using private vehicles to access local centres. This will help reduce total air pollution, whilst the use of electric public transport vehicles in the longer term would further reduce the impact. It is envisaged that this measure will encourage modal shift and thus reduce the number of people using private vehicles to access local centres. This will help reduce total levels, whilst the use of electric public transport vehicles in the longer term would further reduce the impact. This measure would not impact on landscape and townscape. Landscape and townscape Biodiversity This measure would not impact on biodiversity. Heritage This measure would not impact on any archaeologically sensitive areas. Water environment This measure would not impact on water environment. Soils This measure would not impact on soils. Social Transport safety Reducing the volume of general traffic using the local road network will help reduce accident rates. Personal security No impact. Permeability Physical fitness Social inclusion The measure would not introduce any new areas of severance or restrictions to permeability for non-motorised users. It is envisaged that the level of people walking and cycling short distances would increase for those using public transport, to the benefit of health and wellbeing. This measure ensures social inclusion by providing access to jobs, education, health, social and leisure services to those without access to a car. In addition, bus priority measures can also improve the environment for those travelling by bike or foot. Equality, Diversity This measure will benefit non-motorists, particularly a wide variety of people such as older people, children, & Human Rights people with disabilities, women and the less well off, are often dependent upon having a reliable bus service. Acceptability, Feasibility, Deliverability and Risk Public acceptability: The general public are likely to support any measure that enhances public transport services on the local road network. Acceptability to other stakeholders: Bus operation companies and business groups are likely to support any measure that enhances public transport services on the local road network. Technical and operational feasibility: Implementing bus priority measures on the local road network is unlikely to pose any technical or operation challenges. Financial affordability and deliverability: This measure is likely to be affordable and deliverable in the short to medium term. Risks: Introducing and enhancing bus priority measures may impact on general traffic road capacity, which may attract opposition from some users. 1 Safer, easier and more reliable travel East-West in South Wales. Improved transport connections within Wales and to England, the Republic of 2 Ireland and the rest of Europe on all modes on the international transport network. 3 More effective and integrated use of alternatives to the M4, including other parts of the transport network and other modes of transport for local and longer distance journeys around Newport. 4 Best possible use of the existing M4, local road network and other transport networks. 5 More reliable journey times along the M4 corridor. Increased level of choice for all people making journeys within the transport 6 corridor by all modes between Magor and Castleton, commensurate with demand for alternatives. 7 Improved safety on the M4 Corridor between Magor and Castleton. 8 Improved air quality in areas next to the M4 around Newport. 9 Reduced disturbance to people from high noise levels, from all transport modes and traffic within the M4 corridor. 10 Reduced greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle and/or person kilometre. 11 Improved travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. 12 An M4 attractive for longer distance journeys that discourages local traffic use. 13 Improved traffic management in and around Newport on the M4 Corridor. 14 Easier access to local key services and residential and commercial centres. 15 A cultural shift in travel behaviour towards more sustainable choices. 63

65 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Diagram / Plan Measure 23: Use of systematic and enforced bus priority measures on the local road network Bus Routes Priority Bus Corridors 64

66 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Worksheet Description Appraisal Measure 24: Provide better transport mode integration including revised ticketing system This measure would involve the preparation and delivery of a phased Public Transport Interchange Strategy and Action Plan. This would help to ensure that passengers can interchange onto sustainable transport modes using high-quality facilities and easier processes of travel. This would involve improving integration between different sustainable transport modes through: Improving existing public transport interchange facilities, including enhancements to walking and cycling accessibility at bus and rail stations; Improving integration of bus and rail services; Providing new/improved multi-modal interchange facilities and strengthening links between Newport train and bus stations; Improving the quality of passenger information; and Improving ticketing systems to be used across modes. In order to optimise choice in travel destination and convenient connections, it will be important to improve accessibility between rail and bus travel in particular. Newport train station has been subject to recent redevelopment and Newport City Council plans to redevelop Newport bus station as part of the proposed John Frost Square regeneration. This measure would support this plan but additionally explore the opportunity to develop a supporting bus facility or hub adjacent to Newport train station to aid modal integration. Economic Impact When the schedules and timing of different transportation modes are well-planned and well-integrated; wait times are minimised and mobility and convenience are maximised. This translates to shorter overall journey times. For customers, public transport integration means a more attractive system, which helps raise public transport usage, revenues and encourage modal shift. Ultimately, this reduces the costs of traffic congestion on the economy. Operational costs would arise from maintaining cycle parking and bus waiting facilities, but these should generally be offset by the increase in bus and rail patronage. Social Impact Multi-modal transport integration offers advantages in terms of reduced user travel time and cost whilst enhancements to interchange facilities will result in benefits to passenger safety, comfort, and convenience. Improvements to transport interchange can overcome social inequality and a family travelling together interacts more when using public transport compared to travelling by car. Integration between modes also improves accessibility to facilities, education, services, employment opportunities and communities. Environmental Impact Multi-modal transport integration enhances transport efficiency, which saves energy and reduces emissions. Ultimately, achieving modal shift will help reduce car use, congestion and associated pollution. Acceptability, Deliverability, Feasibility and Risk Integration of transport modes involves a complex set of systems that must be planned and dynamically co-ordinated, often requiring the collaborative working of competitive service operators. As such, delivery may be best achieved through formulation and management of a Public Transport Interchange Strategy and Action Plan. The co-operation and interaction of political, legal and financial representatives is crucial, especially in the design and implementation phase but also at the operational stages of an integrated public transport system. The benefits of an integrated public transport system are well established. In Limburg, Netherlands, an integrated network was launched in December 2006 and the results for the first year showed a 29% increase in bus use, and a 43% increase in rail use in the southern section of the province. Passenger satisfaction rates have also risen. Increased efficiency has led to reduced operating costs such as fuel and labour. The UK Government's objective to develop a national strategy for smart and integrated ticketing will support this measure. Devolved government funding has already enabled a number of bus operators to install Smart card readers on all its buses in Wales. Such devolved powers may also benefit the efficient and timely co-ordination of other delivery mechanisms. Compatibility with Package 3: Summary of Key Issues Seamless integration of alternative modes will be needed in order to successfully attract greater use of public transport to the extent that traffic volumes will reduce to relieve congestion problems on the M4. Non-integrated public transport systems tend to neglect the needs of customers, which ultimately hinders potential patronage. Providing better public transport interchange provision will be fundamental in encouraging modal shift onto public transport in the longer term. Encouraging people to use public transport during on-line M4 construction works will help reduce the adverse impact of disruption. The development of a phased Public Transport Interchange Strategy and Action Plan should be prepared that identifies improvements to public transport and walking and cycling infrastructure/facilities; as proposed by other measures contributing to Package 3. 65

67 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Table Appraisal against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance Criteria Measure 24: Provide better transport mode integration including revised ticketing system Appraisal against Programme Goals (Transport Planning Objectives) Criteria Assessment Significance Economy Transport Economic Efficiency (TEE) A well-planned and well-integrated transport system will help minimise wait times and improve mobility and convenience. This translates to less time spent commuting to the benefit of journey times. Economic Activity and Location Impact (EALI) Environment Noise Local Air Quality For customers, public transport integration means a more attractive system which helps raise public transport usage, revenues and encourage modal shift which will ultimately reduce the costs of traffic congestion on the economy. Modal shift onto a more reliable and efficient public transport system will help reduce noise pollution associated with traffic congestion on the road network. Modal shift onto a more reliable and efficient public transport system will help reduce air pollution associated with traffic congestion on the road network. Multi-modal transport integration enhances transport efficiency, which saves energy and reduces emissions. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Landscape and This measure will have no impact on landscape and townscape. townscape Biodiversity This measure will have no impact on ecology and thus does not require an ecology survey. Heritage This measure would not impact on any archaeologically sensitive areas. Water environment This measure would not impact on water environment. Soils This measure would not impact on soils. Social Transport safety Modal shift may help reduce traffic volumes, congestion and improve road safety. Personal security Improving modal interchange facilities will benefit user safety and increase personal security. Permeability Enhancing conditions for walking, cycling and use of public transport will benefit permeability. Physical fitness Enhancing conditions for walking and cycling will benefit health and wellbeing. Social inclusion Multi-modal transport integration offers advantages in terms improved passenger safety, comfort and convenience to the benefit of social equity. Improving transport integration should consider the needs of all groups of people and benefit the movement of the mobility impaired in particular, who may rely on public transport services to travel. Equality, Diversity No impact. & Human Rights Acceptability, Feasibility, Deliverability and Risk Public acceptability: Improving modal integration facilities is likely to be supported. Acceptability to other stakeholders: Improved modal integration to benefit public transport use is likely to be supported politically. Technical and operational feasibility: There are likely to be a number of operational issues as a result of operational issues as a result of the number of operators involved, however this none of these are insurmountable. Financial affordability and deliverability: This measure is likely to be affordable and deliverable in the short to medium term. Risks: Delivery will rely on effective collaborative working between a potentially large number of delivery groups and stakeholders, including operators, councils and infrastructure providers. 1 Safer, easier and more reliable travel East-West in South Wales. Improved transport connections within Wales and to England, the Republic of (++) 2 Ireland and the rest of Europe on all modes on the international transport network. 3 More effective and integrated use of alternatives to the M4, including other parts of the transport network and other modes of transport for local and longer distance journeys around Newport. 4 Best possible use of the existing M4, local road network and other transport networks. 5 More reliable journey times along the M4 corridor. Increased level of choice for all people making journeys within the transport 6 corridor by all modes between Magor and Castleton, commensurate with demand for alternatives. 7 Improved safety on the M4 Corridor between Magor and Castleton. 8 Improved air quality in areas next to the M4 around Newport. 9 Reduced disturbance to people from high noise levels, from all transport modes and traffic within the M4 corridor. 10 Reduced greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle and/or person kilometre. 11 Improved travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. 12 An M4 attractive for longer distance journeys that discourages local traffic use. 13 Improved traffic management in and around Newport on the M4 Corridor. 14 Easier access to local key services and residential and commercial centres. 15 A cultural shift in travel behaviour towards more sustainable choices. (++) 66

68 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Worksheet Description Appraisal Measure 25: Provide cycle friendly infrastructure to help reduce the number of car journeys of less than three miles This measure would target car users undertaking journeys of up to three miles and promote cycling as a real alternative to the car. A programme of cycling infrastructure improvements would be made primarily to deliver safer, traffic-free routes encouraging a modal shift from the private car. Other measures to improve cycling conditions would include the delivery of: Cycle tracks/lanes/contraflows; Advanced stop lines; Toucan crossings; Cycle storage facilities; Shared use footways; Access control exemptions; and Directional signage. There are many benefits to cycling including improved health, cost savings and, in many congested environments, journey time savings. Indirect benefits include reduced congestion, emissions, infrastructure costs and improved social inclusion. Improvements would primarily be focussed on key corridors to destinations including local retail centres, health services, education establishments and public transport services. Economic Impact Whilst the scale of investment made in cycling infrastructure would determine the economic cost and benefit of any package of cycling improvements, the benefit-cost ratio of investment in cycling is consistently high. The benefits of providing new and improved cycle-friendly infrastructure would include improved accessibility to local education, shops, services and employment centres which could facilitate an increase in local economic activity. Modal shift from private vehicular trips could result in reduced local congestion and journey time savings and cost savings to individuals. Indirect economic benefits could include reductions in health and infrastructure expenditure. Social Impact Cycling is a sustainable and healthy form of transport. Improving cycling conditions will encourage people to use their bike for local trips to the benefit of people s health and wellbeing. Cycling can improve social equity by reducing journey costs incurred by the user. It can also contribute to community cohesion and reduce social exclusion by helping to create safer, more pleasant streets for people to meet and socialise and for children to play. Environmental Impact Encouraging the use of sustainable modes such as cycling will help reduce dependence on private vehicles and public transport for short journeys in particular. Overall this will help encourage a reduction in congestion, pollution and emissions. Cycle infrastructure is likely to include some off-road paths and trails, which can, if appropriately designed and managed, provide access to green space. Acceptability, Deliverability, Feasibility and Risk The benefit-cost ratio of investment in cycling is generally 4:1. The road safety charity Brake published a research paper in 2011 indicating that more people would be persuaded to cycle if there were facilities to enable them to do so safely. Findings suggest that 34% of people who don t currently cycle would cycle between home and local amenities if there were cycle paths and trails connecting them. This means that with investment in safe cycling facilities, a significant number of people could be persuaded to cycle to improve their health, reduce carbon emissions and congestion. Cycling is normally judged to be appropriate to replace journeys of up to three miles; it would therefore directly replace only a small number of trips currently made along the M4 corridor. The trunk road impact of this measure will be enhanced if improvements are focussed at interchanges and on key routes where, to avoid congestion, drivers transfer their journey to the trunk road network. Improvements could also be implemented to improve access to key public transport corridors. Compatibility with Package 3: Summary of Key Issues One of the best ways to improve road conditions for cyclists is to reduce the volume and speed of vehicles. Therefore this measure would best be delivered though complementary traffic reducing and traffic calming measures. The core scheme in Package 3 aims to secure the M4 as a long distance traffic route. As such, improvements to local accessibility will be required and the introduction of online cycling infrastructure improvements on the existing local road network aim to help reduce traffic volumes and associated congestion on local routes. It is acknowledged that investments in cycling will help to replace only a small number of trips currently made along the M4 corridor. However, as part of a package focused on public transport enhancements and achieving modal shift to more sustainable modes of travel, this measure could play an important role. 67

69 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Table Measure 25: Provide cycle friendly infrastructure to help reduce the number of car journeys of less than 2 miles Appraisal against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance Criteria Appraisal against Programme Goals (Transport Planning Objectives) Criteria Assessment Significance Economy Transport Economic Efficiency (TEE) Encouraging people to cycle short distances will help reduce the volume of traffic using the motorway and local road network for local trips. This could help reduce traffic congestion, particularly at peak commuting periods, Economic Activity and Location Impact (EALI) Environment Noise which would in turn aim to improve journey time reliability. Enhancing cycling infrastructure will help improve accessibility to education, employment opportunities and local services. Cycling has very low noise emissions, so this measure will lead to a reduction in noise pollution. Any local noise pollution during construction of facilities will need to be mitigated against. Local Air Quality Cycling does not produce any emissions, so this measure will lead to an improvement in local air quality. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Landscape and townscape Biodiversity Heritage Cycling does not produce any emissions, so this measure will lead to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions in operation. There may be opportunities to incorporate improvements to the landscape into improvements to cycle infrastructure; in particular off-road paths may present opportunities to better manage otherwise neglected green space. However, where road widening is required to facilitate new cycle lanes, this could have a negative impact on the landscape. There may be opportunities to incorporate improvements to biodiversity into improvements to cycle infrastructure; in particular off-road paths may present opportunities to better manage otherwise neglected green space. However, where road widening is required to facilitate new cycle lanes, this could have a negative impact on biodiversity. There may be opportunities to improve access to heritage sites through provision of new cycle infrastructure; in particular off- road paths may present opportunities that the existing road network does not. However, where road widening is required to facilitate new cycle lanes, this could have a negative impact on heritage sites. Water environment There may be opportunities to improve water run-off as part of the creation of new cycle lanes. Soils There would be no impacts on soils. Social Transport safety Reducing the volume of general traffic using the local road network will help reduce accident rates. Managing cyclist and general traffic conflicts on the road network will be important to ensuring transport safety. Personal security This measure can help to create safer streets for people to meet and socialise and for children to play Permeability This measure will enhance permeability as cycle infrastructure is likely to include new routes which can, if (++) appropriately designed and managed, provide improved permeability for sustainable transport modes. Physical fitness Cycling short distances would benefit people s health and wellbeing. (++) Social inclusion Improving cycling facilities will aid transport choice for local journeys, benefiting social equity. This measure can also contribute to community cohesion, helping to create safer, more pleasant streets for people to meet and socialise and for children to play. This measure can improve social equity, as it is a low cost mode of transport, equally accessible to most groups. Equality, Diversity No impact. & Human Rights Acceptability, Feasibility, Deliverability and Risk Public acceptability: The general public are likely to support measures that enhance cycling infrastructure. Acceptability to other stakeholders: Business groups and schools are likely to support any measure that enhances cycling accessibility for employees and pupils respectively. Technical and operational feasibility: Delivering enhanced cycling infrastructure is unlikely to pose any technical or operation challenges. Financial affordability and deliverability: This measure is likely to be affordable and deliverable in the short to medium term. Risks: Any cycling infrastructure measures should be delivered in partnership with Sustrans and local authority cycling officers. Funding availability will determine the level of improvement potentially delivered. The success of increasing cycling is also related to the availability of cycle parking, improvements in modal interchange and public transport facilities. (++) 1 Safer, easier and more reliable travel East-West in South Wales. Improved transport connections within Wales and to England, the Republic of 2 Ireland and the rest of Europe on all modes on the international transport network. 3 More effective and integrated use of alternatives to the M4, including other parts of the transport network and other modes of transport for local and longer distance journeys around Newport. 4 Best possible use of the existing M4, local road network and other transport networks. 5 More reliable journey times along the M4 corridor. Increased level of choice for all people making journeys within the transport 6 corridor by all modes between Magor and Castleton, commensurate with demand for alternatives. 7 Improved safety on the M4 Corridor between Magor and Castleton. 8 Improved air quality in areas next to the M4 around Newport. 9 Reduced disturbance to people from high noise levels, from all transport modes and traffic within the M4 corridor. 10 Reduced greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle and/or person kilometre. 11 Improved travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. 12 An M4 attractive for longer distance journeys that discourages local traffic use. 13 Improved traffic management in and around Newport on the M4 Corridor. 14 Easier access to local key services and residential and commercial centres. (++) 15 A cultural shift in travel behaviour towards more sustainable choices. (++) 68

70 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Diagram / Plan Measure 25: Provide cycle friendly infrastructure to help reduce the number of car journeys of less than 2 miles 69

71 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Worksheet Description Appraisal Measure 26: Provide walking friendly infrastructure to help reduce the number of car journeys of less than 2 miles This measure would provide improvements to pedestrian infrastructure to promote walking as the primary modal choice for short journeys, and is particularly targeted at car users undertaking journeys of up to two miles. The majority of journeys are made over comparatively short distances, with an estimated one third of all trips being less than one mile in length. Data suggests that half of car owners use their vehicle for journeys of less than one mile (Dublin Transport Office). There are many benefits to encouraging modal shift from private transport to walking. For the walker the benefits can include improved health, cost savings and, in congested environments and journey time savings. Indirect benefits include reduced congestion, emissions, infrastructure costs and improved social inclusivity. A programme of pedestrian infrastructure improvements would be implemented along key corridors. Pedestrian improvement measures would include: Street lighting and pedestrian realm measures to improve safety and attractiveness; Accessibility upgrades for the disabled and mobility impaired; Enhancement of pedestrian routes through footway widening, crossing upgrades, urban realm improvements and clear signage; and Offering quality pedestrian amenities, including benches and storage lockers at the workplace. Improvements would be focussed on key corridors to/from destinations including local retail centres, health services, education establishments and public transport services. Economic Impact It is difficult to quantify the cost-benefit of pedestrian infrastructure as benefits can be diverse, indirect and hard to place a monetary value on. Improved walking connections to shops, services and employment centres could facilitate an increase in local economic activity. Modal shift from private vehicular trips could result in reduced local congestion and journey time savings and cost savings to individuals. Indirect economic benefits could include reductions in health and infrastructure expenditure. Social Impact Walking is an enjoyable, sustainable and healthy form of transport. As the lowest cost form of transport, walking is equally accessible to all therefore and improvements to walking infrastructure reduce inequality. Walking encourages interaction within the local population and environment contributing to community cohesion and reduced social exclusion. Pedestrian activity helps create safer, more pleasant streets for people to meet, socialise and for children to play. Through improving local access on foot, investment could result in more sustainable movement of people, ultimately reducing the costs incurred to the user of the private vehicle or public transport for short distance trips. Environmental Impact Encouraging people to walk short distances will help reduce the dependence on the private vehicle and public transport for short journeys in particular. Overall this will help encourage a reduction in congestion, pollution and emissions. Pedestrian infrastructure generally requires less construction material and area than vehicular infrastructure resulting in direct and indirect environmental benefits. Acceptability, Deliverability, Feasibility and Risk Walking is generally a low cost transport investment that can help reduce the number of short distance journeys made by private vehicles. Walking improvements are generally considered to be beneficial to the local community with little opposition. Schemes which result in direct reductions in vehicular access, such as the removal of car parking, can be opposed by local businesses. There is already a high level of pedestrian infrastructure in the local area therefore the package of works may focus on barriers or possible points of severance that have previously been difficult to overcome but which increased funding and collaboration would help achieve. An excellent example of this is the Newport footbridge. Walking is normally judged to be appropriate to replace local journeys of up to two miles. The trunk road impact of this measure will be enhanced if pedestrian corridor improvements are focussed at interchanges and on key highway routes where, to avoid congestion, drivers transfer their journey to the trunk road network. Pedestrian improvements could also be implemented to improve access to key public transport corridors. Compatibility with Package 3: Summary of Key Issues It is acknowledged that investments in pedestrian facilities will help to replace only local trips. However, as part of a package focused on public transport enhancements and achieving modal shift to more sustainable modes of travel, this measure will play an important role to enhancing local accessibility. 70

72 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Appraisal Summary Table Measure 26: Provide walking friendly infrastructure to help reduce the number of car journeys of less than 2 miles Appraisal against Welsh Transport Planning and Appraisal Guidance Criteria Appraisal against Programme Goals (Transport Planning Objectives) Criteria Assessment Significance Economy Transport Economic Efficiency (TEE) Encouraging people to walk short distances will help reduce the volume of traffic using the local road network for local trips. This will help reduce local traffic congestion, particularly at peak commuting periods, which will in Economic Activity and Location Impact (EALI) Environment Noise Local Air Quality turn aim to improve journey time reliability. Enhancing pedestrian infrastructure will help improve accessibility to local centres, employment opportunities and local services. It is envisaged that this measure will encourage people to walk short distances instead of using private vehicles to access local destinations. This will help reduce vehicle use associated noise levels on the local road network. It is envisaged that this measure will encourage people to walk short distances instead of using private vehicles to access local destinations. This will help reduce vehicle use associated air pollution levels on the local road network. It is envisaged that this measure will encourage people to walk short distances instead of using private vehicles to access local destinations. This will help reduce vehicle use associated vehicle emissions. Increase pedestrian movement is likely to enhance and animate the urban environment and character of urban spaces. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Landscape and townscape Biodiversity There would be negligible impacts on biodiversity. Heritage There would be negligible impacts on heritage. Water environment There would be negligible impacts on water environment. Soils There would be negligible impacts on soils. Social Transport safety Reducing the volume of general traffic using the local road network will help reduce accident rates. Personal security Improving walking conditions such as better lighting will help enhance the safety of pedestrians. Permeability Improving walking facilities will help enhance local permeability. Physical fitness Walking short distances would benefit people s health and wellbeing. (++) Social inclusion Improving pedestrian facilities will aid transport choice for local journeys, benefiting social equity. This measure can improve equality, as it is the cheapest mode of transport, equally accessible to most, regardless of income or level of health. In addition, improvements to pedestrian infrastructure would also help mobility impaired users and the disabled through methods such as introducing tactile paving. Equality, Diversity No impact. & Human Rights Acceptability, Feasibility, Deliverability and Risk Public acceptability: The general public are likely to support any measure that enhances pedestrian infrastructure. Acceptability to other stakeholders: Business groups, disabled groups and schools are likely to support any measure that enhances pedestrian accessibility for employees, the mobility impaired and pupils respectively. Technical and operational feasibility: Delivering improved pedestrian infrastructure is unlikely to pose any technical or operational challenges. Financial affordability and deliverability: This measure is likely to be affordable and deliverable in the short to medium term. Risks: The success of encouraging people to walk short distances may rely on improvements in modal interchange and public transport facilities. (++) 1 Safer, easier and more reliable travel East-West in South Wales. Improved transport connections within Wales and to England, the Republic of 2 Ireland and the rest of Europe on all modes on the international transport network. 3 More effective and integrated use of alternatives to the M4, including other parts of the transport network and other modes of transport for local and longer distance journeys around Newport. 4 Best possible use of the existing M4, local road network and other transport networks. 5 More reliable journey times along the M4 corridor. Increased level of choice for all people making journeys within the transport 6 corridor by all modes between Magor and Castleton, commensurate with demand for alternatives. 7 Improved safety on the M4 Corridor between Magor and Castleton. 8 Improved air quality in areas next to the M4 around Newport. 9 Reduced disturbance to people from high noise levels, from all transport modes and traffic within the M4 corridor. 10 Reduced greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle and/or person kilometre. 11 Improved travel experience into South Wales along the M4 Corridor. 12 An M4 attractive for longer distance journeys that discourages local traffic use. 13 Improved traffic management in and around Newport on the M4 Corridor. 14 Easier access to local key services and residential and commercial centres. (++) 15 A cultural shift in travel behaviour towards more sustainable choices. (++) 71

73 M4 Corridor Enhancement Measures: Measure Diagram / Plan Measure 26: Provide walking friendly infrastructure to help reduce the number of car journeys of less than 2 miles KEY Route improvement 72