Innovating Accessibility Planning Methodologies for Sustainable Urban and Regional Development: The case of Västra Götaland

Carey Curtis

To: University of Gothenburg

From: Curtin University, Australia

Project abstract

Modern cities are traditionally built for car-based mobility. Increasing urbanization has lead to sprawling cities, congestion, longer travel times, increased levels of pollution with significant economic, social and environmental costs. Planning authorities have met these challenges by applying a sectoral approach. A growing body of research suggests an alternative 'integrated' approach would be more effective at resolving these significant and costly challenges that cities now face. The approach requires a shift from mobility-based to accessibility-based planning - striving not to supply for maximum mobility but for the best accessibility to desired activities.

The project further develops a body of international research in the field of accessibility planning for sustainable urban and regional development to the benefit of the region. The project comprises four parts. the development and refinement of accessibility tools for use in planning practice, a study of institutional barriers to sustainable transport planning, development and delivery of a short course for planners on sustainable accessibility planning and finally the development a longer term international research programme.

This research will bring together the Research group for Mobility and Accessibility at the University of Gothenburg, the Public Transport Planning Department at Västra Götalandsregionen and an internationally acclaimed researcher from Curtin University, Australia. This work will be a key factor in further strengthening the long-term collaboration between academia and the public sector. In this way it will strongly support the innovation milleu in Västra Götaland in the areas of Sustainable Transport Solutions and Urban Development.