This study, commissioned in 1999, examined areas of Leith (Edinburgh), Castlemilk (Glasgow) and Coatbridge (North Lanarkshire) by interviewing 552 households, using 19 travel study diaries and by assessment of the actual and perceived transport provision in these areas. Women, the unemployed, the elderly, people with health problems and those in low income groups were more likely to experience transport-related social exclusion. Excluded groups were heavily reliant on walking, public transport and lifts from car owners. Lower income groups spent more on fares than higher income groups. Regular car access was associated with higher income and home ownership. The elderly and people with health problems were most likely to have difficulty with transport. Two-thirds of respondents were within 3 minutes of a bus stop. Over 60% relied on friends and family for transport. Only 5% wished to move to improve transport links and accessibility. Reduced fares and budget ticketing were used by relatively low numbers of people, and while awareness of community transport schemes was high, usage was low. Recommendations included increased targeting of subsidies and concessions, increased coordination and monitoring of public transport operations, socially responsible fares and ticketing arrangements, and the promotion of public transport in new developments.
Abstract