Site Management · Mandatory · Pre-Construction
Traffic Management Plan
The Traffic Management Plan establishes safe vehicle and pedestrian routes on and around the construction site, including one-way systems, speed limits, segregation barriers, banksman requirements, and delivery scheduling. It addresses the interface between construction traffic and public highways, requiring coordination with the local authority where road closures or diversions are needed.
Last reviewed: 29 March 2026 — This guide reflects UK law as of this date. CDM 2015 / TSRGD remains current with no amendments enacted as of 29 March 2026. Next scheduled review: 29 March 2027.
Traffic Management — Separating People and Plant
Vehicle and pedestrian interaction is a consistently fatal risk. An excavator/dumper operator has significantly reduced visibility, moves in limited space, and operates where workers may not expect plant. The traffic management plan is the primary mechanism for reducing risk through physical separation, route planning, and behavioural controls.
The plan must be prepared before construction begins and updated as the site layout changes.
“Pedestrian/plant separation is the non-negotiable priority — exclusion zones must be physical, not just painted lines” — Painted lines are better than nothing but physical barriers (Jersey barriers, Heras fencing, safety fencing) are significantly more effective. Where barriers cannot prevent all interaction, banksmen with Stop/Go boards must control all movements.
Traffic Management Plan — Key Content
| Element | Content |
|---|---|
| Site layout plan | Traffic route map: vehicle routes, pedestrian routes, crossing points, loading/unloading zones, speed limit zones, turning areas. |
| Vehicle routes | One-way where possible. Adequate width for the largest vehicle. Passing places where two-way. Hard standing where soft ground risk. |
| Pedestrian routes | Physically separated from vehicle routes. Clearly signed. Adequate width. No dead ends. |
| Speed limits | 5mph (or site-specific) at all entrances and throughout. Physical calming where necessary. |
| Banksman requirements | Required for: all reversing; plant near pedestrian routes; delivery vehicle unloading. |
| Delivery management | Pre-booking system. Delivery windows. Sized for site — no oversized vehicles without arrangement. |
| Public road interface | Site entrance management (traffic lights, banksmen). Wheel wash if needed. Hoarding on footway. |
| Emergency access | Emergency vehicle route maintained clear. 5.0m minimum clear width for fire appliance. |
Common Mistakes
No physical separation — relying on markings — painted corridors do not prevent a reversing dumper from entering a pedestrian zone. Physical barriers (Heras, concrete, Jersey blocks) are the standard. Banksmen at crossing points.
Reversing without banksmen — all reversing on a busy site should involve a trained banksman (CPCS A40) with clear sight of the vehicle and area. Mirrors have significant blind spots especially for excavators/dumpers.
Not updating as site develops — a groundworks plan is unsuitable for the fit-out phase. Must review and update as layout and primary traffic types change. Workers re-briefed.
Inadequate sight lines at site exit onto public road — hoarding, parked vehicles, and deliveries can obstruct. A banksman must control at the road interface. The plan must specifically address exit junction visibility.
No wheel wash — muddy vehicles on public roads create hazards and enforcement issues with the local authority. Assess need and document the decision. Install where there is significant vehicle mud risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the minimum traffic route widths?
When is a banksman required vs optional?
Does the TMP address car parking?
What permissions are needed for traffic management on a public road?
Generate your Traffic Management Plan on Construction Suite
Construction Suite walks you through every required section with a guided Q&A — built to CDM 2015 / TSRGD — and generates a professionally formatted document in minutes.
Get started freeThis guide is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, regulations change and individual project circumstances vary. Construction Suite is a trading name of Xzist Digital Ltd, registered in England and Wales.