Northern Appraisal Playbook | Phase 1 | Strengthening Business Cases in the North

What is it?
This playbook is a practical guide to strengthening transport business cases across the North. It shows how to apply appraisal methods and make better use of Green Book and TAG flexibilities, with tools and examples to support consistent, place‑based assessment.

How is it useful?
It helps combined authorities and partners build stronger, more compelling cases for investment. Use it to better capture economic, social and environmental impacts, align with local and national priorities, and clearly show the wider benefits of your scheme.

Key recommendations

• Business cases should capture wider impacts, not just value for money
• Using Green Book and TAG flexibilities can strengthen the evidence
• Place‑based analysis helps show impacts on people and communities
• Stronger narratives improve how schemes align with strategic priorities