HIA of the Rotherham-Sheffield Motorway Corridor Planning Study
Resource/Evaluation type
Completed HIA
Subject area
Transport, urban regeneration
Summary
United Kingdom - 2001
In 1999, the Rotherham and Sheffield planning authorities commissioned a study to examine the development potential of an underprivileged area close to the M1 motorway that passes between the two cities. The aim of that study (known locally as the Babtie Report) was to devise a regeneration strategy that would take into account the complex relationship between land use, transportation, economic development and the environment. The study combined the analysis of the site's development potential, its transport implications (investment in both motorways and public transport was planned in the area), as well as health impacts, environmental impacts and community impacts.
Following consultation with Sheffield’s East End Strategy Group, the East End Quality of Life initiative undertook a participatory HIA on the regeneration strategy. The HIA focuses on the main environmental factors affecting health in the area - air quality, noise and environmental degradation - and on the key economic factor affecting health in the area, i.e. unemployment.
The HIA notes that the regeneration strategy suggests improvements in public transport and the environment, together with a local labour market initiative which were all likely to bring health benefits. However, evidence suggested that the proposed highway improvements in the area, although likely to relieve congestion in the short term, could undermine the sustainable transport proposals at a later date, by generating more traffic and congestion and exacerbating existing health and environmental problems.
More information
Authors and E-mail
Sue Greig, Neil Parry and Barbara Rimmington
E-mail: sue.greig[at]sheffieldse-pct.nhs.uk
Owner contact details
Dr Sue Greig
South East Sheffield Primary Care Trust
9 Orgreave Road
Sheffield S13 9LQ
United Kingdom