Northern Appraisal Playbook | Phase 2 | A fairer approach to appraisal

What is it?
This playbook sets out the next phase of work to improve how transport schemes are assessed across the North. It highlights where current appraisal methods fall short and recommends changes to create a fairer, more place‑based approach.

How is it useful?
It helps combined authorities and partners build stronger cases by better reflecting local conditions. Use it to show how projects support jobs, housing and communities, and to align with national priorities for fairer investment decisions.

Key recommendations

• Appraisal should better reflect real impacts on people, not just average
• Current assumptions can understate job creation and regeneration
• Housing benefits are hard to capture but critical to outcomes
• A broader view of value for money supports fairer, place‑based investment