Travel behaviour in the South East and the search for new policies

This paper describes a study carried out by the Travel Behaviour Group set up by SERPLAN (South East Regional Planning Conference) to determine ways in which public attitudes towards a reduction of car use could be influenced. Proposed mechanisms were assessed for effectiveness, acceptability, enforcement, implementation, cost and geographical dimensions. Current trends which have tended to encourage car use are examined. Ways in which the acceptability of alternatives can be generated are discussed. Policies examined include a) improved rail services, b) improved bus services, c) improved facilities for pedestrians and cyclists, d) park and ride, e) traffic management, f) traffic calming, g) control of car parking, h) exposing the real cost of motoring and i) development control.