This paper presents a study by the University of Ulster of differences in attractiveness between guided busways and light rail transit (LRT). The paper first compares the performance of LRT and four bus-based public transport modes, and discusses the response to projected busway systems in the UK and the USA. To find out whether guided buses or LRT generate an enhanced image, compared to conventional buses, and which of them are perceived more favourably, it was decided that surveys should be conducted at a location whose inhabitants had experience of both guided bus and LRT. The only two cities with this experience are Adelaide, Australia, and Essen, Germany. Essen was chosen, as it used more modern systems. Essen's LRT as it used more modern systems. Essen's LRT system has two lines, and has reversed a previous decline in public transport trips. Its guided busway and dual-mode bus system is being developed as an attractive and adaptable bus system. The Essen preference study aimed to identify the existence and extent of any image effects, associated with Essen's range of public transport modes. About 300 interviews were undertaken in 1992, and its results are summarised. The respondents seemed to have no preference for LRT or guided busway compared with conventional buses.
Samenvatting