The Basis for the Development of Targets

As described in Chapter 4, considerable data analysis has been undertaken in the five segments of Greater Manchester to provide as full an understanding as possible of current and future transport conditions. The results of these analyses were initially made available to topic-based groups to suggest provisional targets for most of the chosen indicators. These groups were briefed to undertake their target setting within the spirit of the LTP guidance and the desire to make clear progress within the five-year plan period. The provisional targets were to be 'challenging yet realistic' and set the scene for the subsequent development of work programmes.

In setting their respective provisional targets, the groups considered a wide range of information, including:

  • National, regional, sub-regional and local equivalent targets
  • DfT guidance on the definition of satisfactory and stretching targets
  • Previous target setting work, including those arising from the DfT engagement exercise and Public Service Agreements
  • Recent national and local trends
  • Segment analysis results
  • Strategy Planning Model predictions, based on assumptions on land use, demography, transport and the economy consistent with the Greater Manchester Strategy, Government figures and the Greater Manchester City Region Development Plan.
  • Objectives of wider development strategies
  • Resource availability as per final Planning Guideline figures
  • Performance of available techniques
  • Comments from stakeholders and consultees
  • Comparisons with other Metropolitan Authorities

In order to justify the provisional target they suggested, each topic group outlined the types and quantity of work necessary to achieve the target, and the risks associated with it. The information was then passed to Local Authorities and PTE in order to help them develop more detailed work programmes to meet these aspirations.

In addition, partners’ contributory actions to the achievement of the targets were examined, such as the actions required of major public transport operators to improve and develop their services.

The overall target setting process is summarised in Figure 6.1 'The Target Setting Loop'.

 

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