This paper will aim to address one of the ETC conference themes: "Guidance for option development in transport studies? How are particular mode solutions chosen?" The international policy context for particular public transport mode solutions will be examined [Europe, North America and Australasia]. As additional context a review of best practice literature will be analysed to highlight the relative performance of a range of public transport mode options [from bus to light rapid transit]. The paper will also briefly highlight some recent technology advances in local public transport which could influence mode selection. In the UK context this includes the development of 'cost contained' light rail and high quality bus technology (e.g. the high capacity 'Roadtrain' double deck bendy bus and the ftr streetcar). The paper will identify that general characteristics of public transport modes are insufficient to select the right mode for any particular application which requires a detailed understanding of the local context. The paper will therefore concentrate on Case Studies to draw on the outcomes from a number of international projects and studies to compare and contrast alternative approaches in the selection of particular transport mode solutions. For the covering abstract see ITRD E135582.
Samenvatting