Abstract
Various studies have advocated the potential for Demand Responsive Transport (DRT) services to deliver sustainable local public transport. This paper investigates the sustainability credentials of DRT services using evidence from UK-based research. More specifically, six potential DRT market niches were identified, including those which offer potential commercial opportunities (e.g. airport surface access) and those that meet social needs (e.g. non-emergency hospital trips). Mode share of these DRT services, against car or bus travel, was simulated from mixed logit models within a panel data modelling framework estimated from survey data. The survey was conducted of over 400 respondents in urban (Rochdale, Manchester) and rural (Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire) areas.Experience shows that it is particularly difficult to make DRT services financially viable. Of the DRT services investigated, those targeting airline or train passengers offer potential. However, they are in direct competition with the car, and so their success depends on the cost and availability of parking spaces. Some of the DRT schemes explored meet social needs, such as to access shopping facilities or hospitals, but they face cost challenges. In addition, institutional barriers for new DRT schemes need to be overcome in order to develop a sustainable local public transport system.
Highlights
The starting point for this paper is the nature of sustainability
This paper has a focus on the public transport form of DRT (Demand Responsive Transport), which can be considered broadly similar to paratransit in the USA and defined as being “an intermediate form of public transport, somewhere between a regular service route that uses small low floor buses and variably routed highly personalised transport services offered by taxis” (Davison, Enoch, Ryley, Quddus, & Wang, 2012)
The aim of this paper is to investigate the local public transport solution of DRT using a sustainability approach
Summary
The starting point for this paper is the nature of sustainability. Implicit in the sustainability concept is sustainable development, “to provide the needs of the present without compromising the needs of the future” as outlined in the Brundtland Report (World Commission on Environment and Development, 1987). A useful framework to apply is to consider the three main elements or ‘pillars’ of sustainable development (UN General Assembly, 2005, p.11): economic development, social development and environmental protection. Sustainable public transport has been defined as collective transport that in an on-going way meets personal travel needs and facilitates strong communities; supports economic development and equitable social participation; promotes environmental health; and has appropriate institutional arrangements and stakeholder involvement (including sufficient sustainable funding) to deliver (Stanley & Lucas, 2013). This paper has a focus on the public transport form of DRT (Demand Responsive Transport), which can be considered broadly similar to paratransit in the USA and defined as being “an intermediate form of public transport, somewhere between a regular service route that uses small low floor buses and variably routed highly personalised transport services offered by taxis” (Davison, Enoch, Ryley, Quddus, & Wang, 2012)
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
