This report gives an overview of existing research into the influence of the main infrastructure, that is to say rail infrastructure and main road network, on households' residence selection patterns. Generally, three kinds of variables influence residence selection patterns, namely those relating to household and dwelling type, and spatial variables. Empirical studies show that accessibility is an important factor in the residence selection process. Nevertheless, compared to other factors, particularly dwelling type, the influence of accessibility is relatively small. However, it would appear that the empirical studies carried out to date did not distinguish between short and long-distance residential changes. It may be assumed that the importance of infrastructure increases, in case of longer-distance removals. Furthermore, people whose home-work distance is 30 km or more account for more than 50% of all commuter travel. In short, there is a clear need for a better understanding of the role of the infrastructure or accessibility in residence selection patterns. Therefore, an empirical study aimed at establishing the importance of infrastructure in relation to residence selection patterns in the Netherlands is recommended.
Abstract