In November 2007 Capita Symonds Ltd conducted a highway operational analysis to supplement the Transport Assessment (May 2007) in support of the outline planning application for the proposed redevelopment of the Smithfield Livestock Market by J Ross Developments. Here the report details the proposed transfer of East to West road traffic movement.

"Fundamental to the design of the proposed gyratory and associated highway improvements is the aspiration of Powys County Council to transfer east to west trunk road traffic movements from Salop Road to route via the A483 and Severn Street.

The traffic models have shown that there is a benefit to the operation of Welshpool Town Centre by the adoption of the east to west trunk road diversion.

An indicative signing strategy for the east to west trunk road diversion is shown in the diagram above.

It must be noted that this is only indicative and that a comprehensive signing strategy would be produced to accompany a final detail design subject to planning permission being granted.

Based upon traffic forecasting work that has been undertaken using the Welshpool PARAMICS model, it can be stated that the redevelopment of the Smithfield Livestock Market as proposed by J Ross Developments could be accommodated within the capacity of the proposed gyratory and associated highway improvements.

It can therefore be concluded that outline planning permission in favour of the redevelopment of Smithfield Livestock Market can be substantiated on highway grounds."

Report by Capita Symonds Ltd