The option sifting process should be undertaken where an unmanageable number of options have been generated or where there is general consensus that options generated will clearly not achieve the intended objectives or meet the identified transport problems and/or opportunities.
There are a number of ways in which options can be shifted and practitioners should agree the approach with stakeholders (and where appropriate decision makers). Where appropriate, an ‘Option Development Process' paper will help to chart the way through the study. This should be undertaken at the start of this stage in the transport appraisal process and amended as it evolves.
Practitioners should derive an approach designed to help people think through complex problems, combinations of decisions to be taken, conflicting points of view and uncertainty, allowing them to reach decisions about what to do. At this stage it is essential to document why options have been recommended for Part 1 Appraisal or why they have been sifted out prior to Part 1 Appraisal.
