University of London Centre for Transport Studies Working Paper
On Accessibility
Abstract
This paper suggests that the current public transport analysis methods
are biased against accessible networks because they are based on assumptions
that are not appropriate for street-based networks. The paper introduces
the concept of accessibility as the degree to which it is possible to reach
(and therefore to use) the public transport system. It promotes the idea
of analysing the accessibility needs of the community as the first stage
of the public transport design process. Following this definition of accessibility
it is useful to evaluate people's perceptions of various factors including
pain, discomfort and security. Only when this has been done can the desired
level of accessible provision be defined. The resulting networks would
probably appear very different and be characterised by different styles
of operation. Planners and operators should note that using accessible
vehicles (for example low-floor buses) is necessary but not sufficient
for such an accessible system. Before any public transport system can really
be described as accessible, it is necessary to ensure that it is possible
for the intended users to reach the vehicle conveniently and with a sense
of security. The challenge to public transport operators and planners is
to make public transport available to the community in a way which meets
the accessibility needs of the people.
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