Two cities with established Park-and-Ride schemes are considered in order to examine the disbenefits of the concept. Of particular concern was the possibility that more car trips were being generated and that the separation of travel generating activities was becoming acceptable. Surveys carried out in Oxford and York determined journey purpose, mode of arrival at the car park, previous travel behaviour, reasons for choosing Park-and-Ride and whether the availability of Park-and-Ride had increased the number of visits made. The results are discussed. Although benefitting urban areas, substantial effects may occur further away. Costs have also been met by public resources rather than by charges. Suggestions are made for encouraging a further switch to bus travel.
Abstract