We are traffic engineers servicing Annangrove, Baulkham Hills, Beaumont Hills, Bella Vista, Box Hill, Carlingford, Castle Hill, Cattai, Dural, Glenhaven, Glenorie, Kellyville, Kenthurst, Leets Vale, Lower Portland, Maraylya, Maroota, Middle Dural, Nelson, North Kellyville, North Rocks, Norwest, Rouse Hill, Sackville North, South Maroota, West Pennant Hills, Winston Hills, Wisemans Ferry.
A Development Application (DA) submitted to The Hills Shire Council can be rejected on a single, critical detail: an inadequate Traffic and Car Parking Impact Assessment. For developers, this risk translates into costly delays, wasted resources, and the frustration of navigating unclear technical requirements. A generic report that fails to address the council’s specific standards is a common cause for DA refusal, creating significant project setbacks.
This guide provides the necessary clarity for developers. It is a professional resource focused specifically on the process of undertaking Traffic and Car Parking Impact Assessments in The Hills Shire Council. We will detail the council’s precise expectations, outline the essential components of a compliant report, and provide the information you need to confidently commission a traffic consultant. Our objective is to ensure your traffic report becomes a tool for swift DA approval, not an obstacle.
Key Takeaways
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Understand that a traffic report is a critical requirement, not a formality, designed to satisfy The Hills Shire Council’s core objectives for road safety and network efficiency.
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Discover the essential components of a compliant report, structured as a checklist to prevent incomplete submissions and council requests for further information.
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Learn how to manage the complexities of undertaking Traffic and Car Parking Impact Assessments in The Hills Shire Council by following a clear, step-by-step process from start to finish.
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Identify and avoid the common, costly mistakes specific to Hills Shire applications that frequently lead to DA delays or rejections.
Table of Contents
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Why a Traffic & Parking Assessment is Crucial for Your DA in The Hills Shire
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Core Components of a Compliant Report for The Hills Shire Council
Why a Traffic & Parking Assessment is Crucial for Your DA in The Hills Shire
A Traffic and Parking Impact Assessment is not a procedural formality; it is a critical component of your Development Application (DA) required by The Hills Shire Council. This technical report provides a detailed analysis of a proposed development’s effect on the local road network and parking supply. The Council’s primary objectives are to ensure new developments do not compromise road safety, degrade the efficiency of the existing transport network, or negatively impact local amenity. A professionally prepared report demonstrates that these factors have been thoroughly considered and mitigated.
To better understand the scope of such an assessment, the following video provides a high-level overview of the process.
Submitting a DA without a required assessment, or with one that is non-compliant, will lead to significant delays or an outright refusal from Council. Therefore, successfully undertaking Traffic and Car Parking Impact Assessments in The Hills Shire Council is fundamental to achieving development consent in a timely manner.
Key Triggers: When Do You Need a Formal Report?
A formal Traffic and Parking Impact Assessment is typically required when a development is likely to generate a notable increase in vehicle movements or parking demand. Key triggers include:
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New multi-dwelling residential developments (e.g., townhouses, apartment buildings).
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Commercial or retail developments exceeding a certain Gross Floor Area (GFA) threshold.
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Specialised land uses such as childcare centres, medical facilities, and places of public worship.
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A change of use for an existing property that intensifies traffic or parking demand (e.g., converting an office to a restaurant).
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Proposals that involve new or modified vehicle access points or alterations to existing on-site parking arrangements.
Understanding The Hills Development Control Plan (DCP)
The primary document governing these requirements is The Hills Development Control Plan (DCP). Your traffic consultant must prepare the report in strict alignment with the specific controls outlined in this plan, particularly Part C Section 1 – Parking and Part C Section 3 – Vehicular Access and Circulation. The DCP provides the specific local criteria for this type of formal Impact Assessment, detailing required parking rates, driveway design standards, and sightline requirements. It is essential to recognise that these local provisions are often more detailed and stringent than broader state-level policies, making adherence to the DCP non-negotiable for DA approval.
Core Components of a Compliant Report for The Hills Shire Council
A successful Development Application (DA) hinges on a Traffic and Parking Impact Assessment that is comprehensive, technically sound, and directly addresses Council’s specific requirements. A deficient report invites requests for information, causing significant delays. To ensure a smooth assessment process, consider the following components as a mandatory checklist when undertaking Traffic and Car Parking Impact Assessments in The Hills Shire Council. A thorough report preempts council concerns and demonstrates due diligence from the outset.
Analysis of Existing Conditions
The first step is to establish a clear, data-driven baseline of the current traffic environment. This provides the context against which your development’s impact will be measured. Council expects a detailed analysis that includes:
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A study of the surrounding road network, identifying road hierarchy and function.
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Current traffic surveys, including peak AM and PM turning movement counts at key intersections.
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An assessment of existing intersection performance (e.g., SIDRA analysis) to identify any current capacity issues.
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A review of public transport accessibility, and pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure.
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On-street parking occupancy surveys to determine existing demand and availability.
Traffic Generation and Parking Demand Assessment
This component quantifies the direct impact of your proposal. Traffic generation is calculated using the established rates from the TfNSW Guide to Traffic Generating Developments. This ensures a consistent and verifiable forecast of new vehicle trips. For parking, your assessment must directly reference the car parking rates specified in The Hills Development Control Plan (DCP). If your proposal seeks to provide a number of spaces that deviates from these rates, a robust, first-principles justification is required, supported by empirical data or relevant surveys.
Site Access, Circulation, and Swept Path Analysis
Council must be satisfied that the proposed site layout is safe, functional, and compliant for all users. This section details the physical design of the parking and access facilities. A critical element is the Swept Path Analysis, which uses software to model vehicle movements and prove that design vehicles-from standard cars to the largest anticipated service or waste collection truck-can safely enter, maneuver within, and exit the site without conflict. All geometric designs for driveways, ramps, parking spaces, and aisles must demonstrate full compliance with the relevant Australian Standards:
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AS 2890.1: For off-street car parking facilities.
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AS 2890.2: For off-street commercial vehicle facilities.
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AS 2890.6: For off-street parking for people with disabilities.
The Assessment Process: A Step-by-Step Guide for Developers
Successfully undertaking Traffic and Car Parking Impact Assessments in The Hills Shire Council requires a systematic, project-managed approach. Engaging a qualified traffic engineering consultant early in the design phase is the critical first step to demystify the process and avoid costly delays. This guide breaks down the assessment into four distinct, logical stages from initial concept to council submission.
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Scoping
The process begins with a consultation to define the project’s scope. During this meeting, you will provide your traffic engineer with architectural plans and project details. Accurate plans are essential for a precise assessment. A professional consultant can also provide valuable assistance during pre-DA (Development Application) meetings with council, helping to identify and address potential traffic-related issues before they become significant obstacles.
Step 2: Data Collection and Site Investigation
Following the initial scoping, your consultant will undertake on-site investigations. This critical fieldwork involves gathering empirical data, which may include:
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Conducting traffic and pedestrian counts at key times.
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Measuring road widths, intersection geometry, and sight lines.
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Observing existing on-street parking utilisation and driver behaviour.
This data forms the factual basis for the entire technical analysis, ensuring the report is robust and specific to your site’s context within The Hills Shire.
Step 3: Technical Analysis and Reporting
The collected data is rigorously analysed using industry-standard software to model traffic generation, parking demand, and intersection performance. The formal report is then drafted, meticulously addressing all criteria outlined in The Hills Shire Council’s Development Control Plan (DCP) and relevant Australian Standards. If any potential adverse impacts are identified, practical and cost-effective mitigation measures are developed and integrated into the report.
Step 4: Submission and Council Review
The finalised Traffic and Parking Impact Assessment is submitted as a key component of your overall DA package. Should The Hills Shire Council issue a Request for Information (RFI) regarding traffic or parking matters, your consultant will manage the response. This involves providing clear, technical clarifications to council officers, defending the report’s methodology and conclusions, and facilitating a smoother, more efficient approval process.
Common Pitfalls in The Hills Shire and How to Avoid Them
Navigating the Development Application (DA) process within The Hills Shire Council requires meticulous attention to detail. Errors in your traffic and parking assessment can lead to significant delays, costly redesigns, or outright rejection. Engaging an experienced traffic consultant from the outset is the most effective strategy to mitigate these risks and protect your project’s timeline and budget.
Underestimating Parking Requirements
A frequent cause for council scrutiny is the failure to strictly meet the car parking rates specified in The Hills Development Control Plan (DCP). The Council is not lenient on parking shortfalls. Proposing a rate lower than the DCP requirement demands an exceptionally robust justification, typically grounded in first-principles analysis, survey data, and a detailed Car Parking Demand Assessment. An unsubstantiated claim of lower demand will not suffice and will almost certainly result in a request for more information, delaying your application.
Poor Driveway and Car Park Design
Technical compliance is non-negotiable. Designs that feature non-compliant ramp grades, inadequate maneuvering areas, or unsafe sightlines are immediate red flags for Council assessors. A failed vehicle swept path analysis, for instance, can force a complete redesign of the car park layout, impacting project viability. All aspects of access and circulation must adhere to the Australian Standards, particularly the AS 2890 series. Proactive design guided by a qualified engineer ensures these standards are met from the initial concept. For more detailed guidance, see our in-depth articles on compliant design.
Ignoring Pedestrian and Cyclist Needs
A comprehensive assessment extends beyond vehicle movements. The Hills Shire Council evaluates a development’s impact on all road users, including pedestrians and cyclists. Failing to provide safe, continuous footpaths, adequate sightlines for pedestrians at driveways, or integration with existing cycleways can be grounds for rejection. Successfully undertaking Traffic and Car Parking Impact Assessments in The Hills Shire Council means demonstrating a holistic approach that promotes active transport and ensures the safety of the most vulnerable road users.
Avoiding these common pitfalls is fundamental to a smooth DA process. For expert guidance on your project, contact the senior engineers at ML Traffic.
Why Choose ML Traffic for Your Hills Shire Development
Successfully navigating The Hills Shire Council’s development application process requires technical expertise and direct experience. A compliant and thorough traffic report is not optional; it is a critical component for approval. Choosing the right traffic engineering consultant is a commercial decision that directly impacts your project’s timeline and viability.
ML Traffic Engineers provides the professional authority and specialised knowledge required for Undertaking Traffic and Car Parking Impact Assessments in The Hills Shire Council. We focus on delivering precise, no-nonsense reports that address all council requirements, minimising delays and requests for further information.
Decades of Experience with Sydney Councils
With over 15 years of focused experience in the Greater Sydney region, our firm has an established track record of success. We have prepared thousands of reports for development applications, giving us an in-depth understanding of the specific requirements and assessment criteria of local councils, including The Hills Shire. This familiarity ensures our reports are aligned with council expectations from the outset. You can learn more about our firm’s history and extensive project portfolio.
Direct Access to Senior Engineers
Our operational model is designed for accountability and clarity. At ML Traffic, the senior consultant who provides your quote is the same expert who completes the technical work and authors your report. Unlike larger firms where projects are often delegated to junior staff, our approach guarantees you receive the full benefit of our senior-level experience. This ensures direct communication, consistent quality, and a single point of responsibility throughout your project.
A Comprehensive, Compliant, and Timely Report
We commit to delivering a report that is comprehensive, compliant with Australian Standards, and meets all specific criteria outlined by The Hills Shire Council. Our expertise in Undertaking Traffic and Car Parking Impact Assessments in The Hills Shire Council covers all necessary components to support your DA, including:
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Traffic Impact Assessments (TIA) and Statements (TIS)
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Car Parking Demand and Layout Assessments (AS 2890.1)
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Vehicle Swept Path Analysis
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Driveway and Ramp Grade Design
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Sight Line and Sight Distance Assessments
Ensure your development application is supported by an expert traffic engineering report. Avoid unnecessary delays and position your project for a smooth assessment process. Ready to begin? Contact us for a quote today.
Secure Your Hills Shire DA with a Compliant Traffic Assessment
Navigating the development application process demands meticulous planning. A compliant report is a critical requirement for approval, and successfully undertaking Traffic and Car Parking Impact Assessments in The Hills Shire Council means avoiding common pitfalls that lead to costly delays. The key is to address all council-specific requirements with a thorough, technically sound report from the outset.
Partner with a specialist to ensure your project’s success. ML Traffic Engineers offers over 15 years of direct experience with Sydney councils, including The Hills Shire. We provide comprehensive reports covering TIA, parking, and swept path analysis, with every project managed directly by a senior engineer. This hands-on approach guarantees the authority and reliability needed to streamline your DA approval.
Remove the uncertainty from your submission. Contact ML Traffic Engineers for an expert quote on your Hills Shire project. Let our expertise clear the path for your development.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Traffic and Parking Impact Assessment cost in The Hills Shire?
The cost varies based on the project’s complexity. A straightforward Traffic Impact Statement (TIS) for a small-scale development may cost between A$2,000 and A$4,000. A comprehensive Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA) for a larger project requiring on-site traffic surveys and detailed analysis will be more. We provide a fixed-fee proposal after reviewing your architectural plans and council requirements, ensuring complete transparency before any work commences.
How long does it take to prepare a traffic report for a DA?
The timeframe is determined by the scope of the assessment. A standard traffic report or TIS can typically be completed within 1 to 2 weeks from engagement. If the project requires a full TIA involving on-site data collection, such as traffic and parking surveys, the process may take 3 to 4 weeks. We provide a clear delivery schedule in our proposal so you can effectively plan your Development Application submission timeline.
Do I need a traffic report for a minor renovation or a small duplex?
It depends on the specific nature of the work and its potential impact. A purely internal renovation with no change to parking or land use generally does not require a report. However, constructing a duplex, which adds a dwelling and increases vehicle movements, will almost certainly require one. The need for undertaking Traffic and Car Parking Impact Assessments in The Hills Shire Council is ultimately determined by their Development Control Plan (DCP) for your specific proposal.
What is the difference between a Traffic Impact Statement (TIS) and a full Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA)?
A Traffic Impact Statement (TIS) is typically required for smaller developments with localised traffic impacts. It focuses on matters such as car parking provision, compliance with Australian Standards (AS 2890.1), site access, and servicing arrangements. A Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA) is a more detailed report for larger developments, involving comprehensive analysis of the existing road network, traffic modelling, and assessment of the development’s impact on nearby intersections.
Can ML Traffic Engineers guarantee my Development Application will be approved?
No consultant can guarantee DA approval, as the final decision rests with The Hills Shire Council. Our role is to provide a technically robust and professional traffic engineering report that thoroughly addresses all council requirements, policies, and Australian Standards. This ensures the traffic and parking components of your application are compliant and expertly justified, significantly strengthening your submission and maximising the probability of a favourable outcome.
What key information do I need to provide to get a quote for a traffic report?
To provide an accurate, fixed-fee quote, we require a complete set of architectural drawings (including site plan, floor plans, and elevations). You should also provide the full site address, a detailed description of the proposed land use (e.g., childcare centre for 50 children), and copies of any specific requirements or correspondence you have received from The Hills Shire Council regarding traffic and parking matters for your development.