Purpose and Intended Effect

Background

The background of the project is discussed in Chapter 1. This report identifies potential impacts of the A96 Corridor Review detailed appraisal options on businesses, local authorities, regulators, consumers, and other relevant stakeholders. Full Dualling and the transport packages are outlined in Chapter 7 of this report.

Findings from this Partial BRIA will be used to inform the overall design and development of the A96 Corridor Review and form the basis for a full BRIA at the detailed design stage.

Objective

Transport Planning Objectives (TPOs) have been developed for the A96 Corridor Review based on the STAG process. TPOs have been aligned to those set at the national level in STPR2, supported by corridor-specific sub-objectives. An overarching set of TPOs have been established as part of STPR2, which are closely aligned with the four priorities, 12 outcomes and 24 policies contained within National Transport Strategy 2 (NTS2). To reflect the nature of the corridor, the overarching TPOs have been amended slightly from the national-level STPR2 objectives. These cover sustainability, accessibility to services, placemaking, reliability, and are detailed in the Case for Change Report. ( Transport Scotland (2022) A96 Corridor Review: Initial Appraisal: Case for Change )

Rationale for Government Intervention

The Scottish Government’s National Performance Framework’s ( Scottish Government (2018) National Performance Framework ) ‘Fair Work and Business’ outcome emphasises the role of the thriving and innovative business sector in Scotland, with quality jobs and fair work for everyone. The vision is to fully support business and social enterprise to successfully attract and retain new talent. This also aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goal of ‘8: Decent Work and Economic Growth’ (UN, 2015). The Partial BRIA aims to consider these goals and the impact on businesses in the area when identifying transport intervention options to take forward for further consultation.

In addition, successful implementation of the actions set out in the route map of the Climate Change Plan 2018–2032 ( Scottish Government (2020) Climate Change Plan. ) is expected to transform the way of living in Scotland, where a new localism thrives in neighbourhoods; where streets become places that are safe for people of all ages to travel by walking and cycling whilst maintaining private vehicle access for those with disabilities; where longer journeys are made by convenient and affordable public or shared transport; and with greater use of online access to key services and opportunities.