This article discusses the difference between planning for increased mobility (the ability to travel) and for increased accessibility (the ability to reach a given destination). Transport planning for mobility provides for more travel, but accessibility planning focuses on the integration of travel and land uses. Integration in the provision of transport can lead to "predict and provide" policy which can lead to changes in land use; for example, the dwindling of local communities as facilities become commercially non-viable and are withdrawn. If accessibility planning is the principle followed, catchment areas for services will expand only as far as is compatible with existing land uses. The decline of central areas results in an increase in the need to travel and where mobility is difficult, in social exclusion. Government policy is to maintain sustainable communities but this will need curbs on mobility and the provision of accessibility without excessive travel. Accessibility plans can be formed around either existing or desired locations.
Abstract