The importance of load carrying and accompanied journeys in family and leisure mobility decisions in Cardiff Capital Region

Ivins, Andrew and Spinney, Justin 2024. The importance of load carrying and accompanied journeys in family and leisure mobility decisions in Cardiff Capital Region. [Project Report]. Cardiff: Cardiff University School of Geography and Planning.

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Abstract

This research explored the qualities (e.g time, cost, distance) that citizens deem important for commute mobilities, family mobilities and leisure mobilities. It explored the similarities and difference in qualities in relation to different journey purposes and social groups, and how different modes of transport meet them. In particular, the research sought to understand how important the qualities of load carrying, and accompaniment are, and whether these are adequately reflected across all transport modes. Focus groups (n=9) and a survey of members of the public (n=244) indicated that although the established qualities of the time, cost, and distance of journeys are significant qualities of modal choice, encumbered travel (load carrying and accompaniment) and the interaction with multi-destination (trip chaining) journeys experienced particularly by parents with young children is an additional quality that links to increased car use. This effect was also present during leisure journeys for those both with and without dependent children, as accompanying friends and load carrying of sports equipment were highlighted as qualities best addressed by the car. A practitioner workshop that took place after the focus group and survey research, considered the findings and developed responses to the key areas of ‘street design’, ‘transport interchange design’, ‘vehicle design', and ‘opportunities and challenges’ of effecting change. The project found that recommendations were particularly focused on bus / carriage design and configurations with a view to improving capacity and accessibility for pushchairs and wheelchairs, investment in on demand bus travel to supplement scheduled services particularly on weekends, and the adoption of e-cargo bike fleets configured with kids’ seats for school drop off, pickup, and onward chaperoning activities. It is suggested that these recommendations have further impacts on bus stop design and access in the vicinity.

Item Type:	Monograph (Project Report)
Status:	Published
Schools:	Geography and Planning (GEOPL)
Publisher:	Cardiff University School of Geography and Planning
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	25 October 2024
Last Modified:	25 Oct 2024 12:10
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/173111

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