wchar
The Walking, Cycling, and Horse-Riding Assessment and Review (WCHAR) is a key step required for highway schemes on motorways and all-purpose trunk roads. The requirements for a WCHAR are detailed in GG 142 of the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges, and they are promoted to facilitate the inclusion of all walking, cycling and horse-riding modes in the highway scheme development process from the earliest stage.
A WCHAR assessment report is typically required at the preliminary design stage. It details the proposed highway scheme and the associated study area identified for the WCHAR, before completing a background review of the existing walking, cycling and horse-riding policies, strategies, trip generators and facilities. This includes a site visit to inspect the conditions of the existing links. Following this review stage, a list of user opportunities is identified, highlighting potential improvements for all three user types.
Following the WCHAR assessment report stage, larger schemes typically require a subsequent WCHAR review report at the end of the detailed design phase to update on the actions taken to address each of the opportunities identified in the earlier WCHAR assessment report.
The arcitran team is experienced in preparing and delivering WCHAR assessment and review reports for a range of projects, and are happy to offer advice on the level of assessment that your development may require.