This paper summarizes the results of research in five EC member states on the influence of the public, commuters, employers, trades unions and governments in planning commuter transport. The research examined 20 cases of decision-making about transport for commuters. The paper discusses the conclusions from four main areas of the research: (1) the influence of background factors such as decision-making frameworks, the area covered and the type of transport problem upon the participation process and its outcome; (2) the effectiveness of the participation process itself in different circumstances; (3) the role of the parties involved in decision-making - including role of governments, commuters, mployers and trades unions; and (4) the impact of participation upon commuting and upon living and working conditions.
Abstract