The British Airports Authority (BAA) Freeflow Heathrow strategy was launched in 1995 to improve public transport opportunities and reduce car dependence. In 1995, the Heathrow Transport Forum was also set up as a partnership of private companies, local authorities, and transport operators, to identify and implement various public transport improvements and associated demand management measures in the Heathrow area. This paper presents some results of a study which began in November 1996. The study's objectives were to: (1) review current and proposed rail services, to identify the most suitable locations for park-and-ride (PAR); (2) seek the views of train operators and local authorities on possible PAR sites and services; and (3) prepare an outline specification for PAR provision. Stage 1 comprised a broad strategic review of potential PAR patronage, and the findings of this preliminary analysis were reported in January 1997. Stage 2 evaluated short-listed PAR sites in more detail, and included detailed network modelling of projected demand at each site, a survey of airport passengers, and development of preliminary scheme proposals and capital cost estimates for PAR sites considered feasible. The paper discusses all these aspects, and ends by summarising the next steps required.
Abstract