Regional models

LATIS has adopted a model hierarchy approach and has developed more detailed regional models to supplement option development and scheme appraisal. These regional models have a basis in the national transport model, sharing one or more of the following features:

• Zoning system
• Network representation
• Base travel demands
• Travel demand forecasting model

Regional models may be used for:

• forecasting changes in traffic levels and public transport patronage at key points across the network
• transport scheme appraisal
• transport policy appraisal
• Regional Transport Strategies
• appraising regional development plans and local plans
• more detailed operational appraisal (e.g. congestion of roads and junctions)

Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) have a multimodal transport model (Strathclyde Integrated Transport Model - SITM) and an integrated land use and transport model (Strathclyde Integrated Transport and Land Use Model - SITLUM) which covers the SPT region.

The first regional model to be developed through the LATIS service was the Forth Replacement Crossing Model. This was subsequently expanded and updated to form the SEStran Regional Model, by the South East of Scotland Transport Partnership (SEStran) with support from Transport Scotland.

More recently, a regional model of the Inner Moray Firth area (Moray Firth Transport Model - MFTM) was developed by The Highland Council with support from Transport Scotland to assist with the preparation of strategic and local development plans in the area and to appraise local transport interventions.

More information can be found regarding hardware and software requirements to run the LATIS regional models.