A preliminary study was
carried out by collecting information on major engineering and environmental
constraints within the full extent of the initial study area shown
in RSR1 figure 1. This information
was methodically reviewed and displayed geographically such that
areas where the probability of locating a feasible route would be
unlikely (low routing potential) were identified. The issues that
were considered included: -
the existing infrastructure, land use, topography and physical
features;
identification of sites or areas of environmental significance
or sensitivity;
planning, development and socio-economic character; and
engineering constraints.
These
areas of low routing potential, and adjacent areas which became
areas of low routing potential by association, have not been considered
further.
Public Consultation No. 1 was undertaken at the end of March 2001.
Comments from the public were invited and facilitated by a "cut
out" comment sheet which would be returned to the County Council.
The results of the consultation were recorded in the Constraints
Study.
The Constraints Study, published in May 2001, provided a comprehensive
record of environmental and engineering constraints in the area.
It assembled existing data such as traffic counts, accident records
and geotechnical data that were then used in the Route Selection
stage of the project.
