Transport Business Cases

SYSTRA has a strong track record of developing compelling business cases that help turn transport visions into operational reality. Our fully compliant appraisals provide the evidence required to secure funding awards and local support.

Building the case for new transport schemes

Local authorities and transport providers, operators and developers need to secure planning approvals and funding to get new transport schemes off the ground. That requires a robust business case with a strong evidence base to demonstrate the social and environmental benefits, financial sustainability and value for money of any proposed scheme.

Business cases need to clearly identify the impacts and benefits of the transport project, and must be robust enough, at each of the business case development stages, to withstand scrutiny by planning authorities, funding bodies and public inquiries. One of the biggest problems is finding specialists with the necessary expertise to deliver fully compliant, properly researched business cases. To add to the complexity, transport appraisal, funding and business case guidance is constantly evolving, and the requirements of Department for Transport (DfT) funding streams vary between different competitions and often have challenging timescales.

SYSTRA has the capability and capacity to deliver end-to-end business case services, helping clients navigate the challenges of complying with relevant regulations and competition rules – and giving them the best chance of gaining approval and funding.

our experience

Discover how SYSTRA has transformed ideas into deliverable strategies, for implementing new infrastructure or making a step change in service provision.

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SYSTRA has the in-house expertise across the business to take the lead in all aspects of preparing appraisals and business cases for all types of transport schemes

SYSTRA has always been at the forefront of efforts to develop more comprehensive appraisals for a wide variety of transport schemes. We seek to go beyond established guidance to deliver creative business cases that provide persuasive evidence to support proposed transport projects. We were among the first to develop and adopt emerging techniques such as Wider Economic Benefits (WEBs), Urban Realm Valuation, Multi-Criteria Assessments (MCA) and Transport User Benefits Appraisals (TUBA).

Comprehensive appraisals for compelling business cases

To create powerful business cases, we carry out demand, revenue and benefit forecasts, environmental appraisals and risk assessments. We have strong capabilities in transport modelling, including multi-modal, rail demand forecasting and bespoke models – which underpin our economic and financial appraisals. We identify the operational impacts of schemes on transport networks, local businesses and communities – and quantify the impacts on the local, regional and national economy.

Support for successful planning and funding approvals

We understand how to develop comprehensive, fully evidenced business cases, ensuring they can withstand the scrutiny of approval and funding bodies, as well as any potential public scrutiny during consultation and public enquiry procedures.

What’s more, we recognise the value of business cases in supporting engagement with local residents, businesses and wider stakeholders – helping to garner advocacy among communities impacted by new transport schemes. Business cases can also be used to encourage wider investments associated with new transport systems, including investments in commercial or residential developments and community amenities.

Business cases for all transport proposals

We have the expertise to develop business cases for all types of transport scheme, including standard linear road, active travel schemes and public transport networks, as well as non-standard interventions, including passenger facilities, information and ticketing measures. We can also provide appraisals for urban improvement schemes, such as pedestrian safety schemes and urban realm enhancements.

Faster route from concept to completion

By delivering the most robust and compliant business cases for our clients, we enable new schemes to progress smoothly through the funding and planning processes – so that essential new transport systems can be implemented promptly. Ultimately, by enabling sustainable transport infrastructure schemes to move swiftly from design through to operation, we help clients to deliver economic, social and environmental benefits for local communities and businesses.

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