Four studies, announced in November 1984, are currently examining transport problems in four areas of London: east London assessment study - covering north and east inner London. South circular assessment study - covering south inner London around the orbital A205 south circular road. South London assessment study - covering a corridor around the radial A23 road from central London south to the M25. West London assessment study - covering west inner London. Each study is being conducted by a separate consultancy team, but a common approach has been adopted by undertaking the investigation under four broad topics: - movement - environment - consultation - planning and economic development. From the outset the studies have sought to involve the public to an extent not previously seen in transport planning. The consultation programme, bringing in individuals and groups, has been a major component of the study's methodology. The methodology then sets perceived views against various measures to produce a combined assessment of problems which can then be used for subsequent stages of the studies to identify potential solutions. The production of the study's reports has been delayed, largely due to administration problems connected with traffic surveys, and therefore results will not be ready for the Summer Annual Meeting 1986. However, the paper will present the methods used so far and will draw tentative conclusions on their applicability to urban transport planning. The focus of the conclusions will relate to the key characteristics of these studies: - problem identification as a necessary step prior to transport strategy/scheme formulation; - public involvement as an equal and early contributor to urban transport planning. This paper is presented in an abstract form.
Abstract