2.6 Issues and Constraints

In parallel to problem and opportunity analysis, relevant Issues and Constraints should also be considered within the context of a STAG led study. It is important that the identification of problems and opportunities is considered within the wider context.

‘Issues' are uncertainties that the study may not be in a position to resolve, but must work within the context of. Where there are uncertainties, there is a responsibility to develop an option that is either robust under different possible out-turns or, alternatively, is flexible enough to be adapted in response to changed circumstances.

Examples of Issues include:

• Uncertainty at the time of the study whether a major road or rail link will be built that will affect the study area;
• The impact of a major new land-use development has yet to become clear; and
• A study for a neighbouring area may lead to a proposal that results in significant changes to through traffic passing across a study area.

Practitioners should account for, or if possible neutralise, such Issues through liaison with neighbouring authorities, government departments and agencies, and transport operators.

Constraints represent the bounds within which a study is being undertaken. These may include but are not limited to:

• The statutory powers of an authority to promote change;
• The funding levels that can realistically be obtained;
• Scottish, UK or EU legislation; and
• Scottish or UK fiscal policy.

Similarly, constraints on the shape of a particular option could be affected by:

• Sensitive areas of ecological or landscape or heritage importance;
• Built-up areas;
• Rivers or railway lines which are expensive to bridge;
• Rough terrain making infrastructure works expensive; and
• Unusual existing patterns of development such as industry and commerce spread over wide areas outside the traditional urban centre.

An early appreciation of these issues will assist in identifying an option which is more readily acceptable than one which ignores them. While it is proper for a study to highlight how a change in the constraints it faces may contribute to the development or success of a transport option, no option should be developed that is dependent upon a change to the constraints upon a study, unless the promoting organisation is in a position to change those constraints.