Strict implementation of the `sustainable safety' concept in rural areas can have substantial implications for the accessibility of the residential rural area. However, it is recognised that adequate accessibility is vital to keep rural residential areas viable. This paper concentrates on the conflict of interests, with a strong focus on keeping out unwanted through traffic in rural residential areas. An optimal road system for rural areas is explored by using two theoretical network models. One of the conclusions of the study is that by locating resistances strategically, unwanted through traffic can be kept out retaining accessibility at the same time. The study also shows that strict implementation of the `sustainable safety' concept in rural areas, meaning to get form the rural road to a road of a higher category as quickly as possible, would not be feasible. Allowing traffic to use the shortest route possible to get from one place to another one is preferred in rural areas. However, adjustment of current travel time criteria would be necessary in specifying the size of a rural residential area. (A)
Abstract