2.7Options analysis#

To correctly identify an appropriate traffic management solution, a procedure should be followed to evaluate alternative options for each specific site / activity of the event. In general, most risks can be managed by one or a combination of the following high-level options as identified in the QGTTM.

2.7.1Around (QGTTM Part 3 Section 3)#

Where an event fully occupies a carriageway or roadway and significant safety or performance benefits are desired, an ‘around’ treatment may be required. Closure of a road with an alternative detour may be an option. A number of traffic arrangements fall within this category, including contraflows, detours and the provision of a side-track. It is noted that detours may require detailed planning, depending on their nature and complexity.

2.7.2Through (QGTTM Part 3 Section 4)#

Through traffic management involves the passage of public road users through the event area which shall only be permitted where both the public traffic and the event activities can be adequately controlled. The through option may require the use of traffic control (for example, traffic controllers, ETMs, portable traffic signal systems (PTSS), portable traffic control devices (PTCD), manually-operated boom gates) to slow traffic on the approach or to stop traffic for short periods when required for the movement of event participants or spectators.

2.7.3Past (QGTTM Part 3 Section 5)#

Traffic management past the event is the method of traffic management where complete elimination of traffic from the event area is not required. This method involves clear delineation and appropriate separation of traffic and event activities. In contrast with an ‘around’ treatment, traffic management past the event generally involves providing for traffic on a separate section of the same carriageway where the activity is occurring. Lane closures and lateral shifts are examples of ‘past’ treatments.

2.7.4Short-term low impact (QGTTM Part 5)#

Less complex traffic management arrangements may be suitable for short-term low impact activities. This may involve event activities that occur for short durations, with low participant numbers, where traffic volumes and speeds are appropriately low. Examples include:

• crossing a public road (obeying general road rules), and
• riding or walking along a road (where cycle lanes or footpaths are sufficient).

It is noted that where vulnerable users are involved or participant numbers are significant, an additional assessment of risk should be conducted.

2.7.5Mobile (QGTTM Part 4)#

Mobile traffic management might be an appropriate event traffic management method when event vehicles move progressively along the roadway at speeds significantly lower than other traffic. This may be on the road or on the shoulder. Event activities which require the mobile works convoy to stop in traffic for less than one hour at one location may be treated as either mobile works (QGTTM Part 4) or frequently-changing or constantly-moving works (in accordance with QGTTM Part 5). All signs and devices are either vehicle-mounted or moved along the roadway as the event progresses.

Additional risk assessment should be undertaken when designing the event's TGS under the mobile works provisions to ensure the suitability of the method for the specific event and the situation.