This paper examines how an inter-modal freight terminal, traffic management measures and improvement to public transport are being worked up for incorporation into an integrated PFI project based on the A350 corridor in Western Wiltshire. Financing transport infrastructure projects through the PFI process is not a new concept - many schemes have now been implemented (e.g. Second Severn Crossing, QEII Bridge) and others are progressing successfully (e.g. Nottingham LRT). The common thread with schemes so far is that they focus on public transport projects in large urban areas or in major improvements to major highway routes. Western Wiltshire is a predominantly rural area with a number of small to medium size towns providing the main centres of population. The A350 runs north south through Western Wiltshire from Chippenham to Warminster via Melksham and Westbury and is a key access route for the area providing a strategic link to the M4 at junction 17. Various sections are below standard requiring improvement and a PFI project is being considered to expedite a number of enhancements including bypasses at Semulgton and Westbury. Wiltshire County Council, who have responsibility for the highway network in the area (including the A350) are committed to sustainable transport policies and are therefore looking at an alternative PFI project which would deliver enhancements to the local public transport network, cyclists, pedestrians, and an inter-modal freight terminal at Westbury. This paper focuses on the challenges presented in developing a PFI for transport infrastructure where the nature of the area means that traffic volumes are lower and existing public transport use is sparse. This includes developing a payment mechanism based on achieving wider sustainability objectives.
Abstract