Multi-Modal Studies are intended to be investigations of problems on or with all modes of transport. The initial Government programme of Multi-Modal Studies was identified in the course of the 1998 Roads Review to address specific problems on the trunk road network. In practice, it was expected that the studies would major on problems on the road, rail and bus systems, including access to ports and airports. It was envisaged, though, that the studies could also include analysis of problems of air transport, coastal shipping and inland waterways.
Transport problems within a study area vary in severity and in terms of the number of people affected. The Government’s Multi-Modal Studies were principally intended to address the most severe strategic transport problems rather than isolated local transport problems. For example, area-wide congestion which might be best addressed by an area-wide policy could be considered in a Multi-Modal Study, whereas an isolated safety problem which might be best tackled by a localised measure was not likely to be regarded as a suitable subject for a Multi-Modal Study. Collections of localised problems or apparently isolated problems, however, could have been regarded as legitimate consideration for a Multi-Modal Study.
The Government’s Guidance on the Methodology for Multi-Modal Studies (DETR, 2000) provided an overview and guidance on the whole study process and more detailed guidance on some specific aspects of the Studies. The Guidance also provided a ‘gateway’ to more detailed advice on individual aspects of the study, where appropriate advice is readily available elsewhere.