This paper discusses how urban transport in France can be used to combat the exclusion of inner urban areas with social problems, and help to make them an integral part of their cities or towns. A French survey of 400 of these problem areas found that they do not all have the same patterns, and that some have good public transport services while others do not. In general, these areas have: (1) lower car ownership rates; (2) lower total mobility; (3) more pedestrians; (4) lower mechanised mobility; (5) appreciably lower car mobility; (6) higher two-wheel mobility; and (7) lower public transport mobility. Their local residents demand journeys to: (1) the city centre; (2) other suburbs; and (3) within their areas. (3) within their areas. Public transport is totally inadequate for journeys of types (2) and (3). Most local authorities seem to be very secretive about their policies for these areas. Public transport fares have some relation to social level, but have few concessions for Young people. Public transport marketing mainly tries to attract car drivers. Care must be taken that excellent public transport facilities do not discourage shops and other local facilities in these areas. However, such facilities can have several positive benefits for local residents.
Abstract