Appraisal is the process of checking that value for money is achieved in delivering Government aims, including investment in transport to solve problems. The New Approach to Transport Appraisal (NATA) was developed following the Government’s White Papers A New Deal for Transport and A New Deal for Trunk Roads.
Throughout the NATA process the Government’s five objectives for transport as outlined in the White Paper are central:
- to protect and enhance the built and natural environment;
- to improve safety for all travellers;
- to contribute to an efficient economy, supporting sustainable economic growth in appropriate locations;
- to promote accessibility to everyday facilities for all, especially those without a car; and
- to promote the integration of all forms of transport and land use planning, leading to a better, more efficient transport system
The appraisal framework in NATA is made up of four distinct parts:
- appraisal summary table (achievement of Government objectives)
- achievement of regional and local objectives
- effectiveness of problem solving
- supporting analyses
These four strands when considered together, provide the decision-maker with the information needed to reach a considered judgement on the worth of a project.