THE SCOPE FOR BUS PARK AND RIDE SCHEMES IN LONDON

This review examines the scope for bus-based park and ride schemes in London. Rail-based park and ride is well developed but bus schemes are not. However, five outer boroughs now operate schemes at Christmas whereas three years ago only two did. The development of bus schemes outside London is traced, showing how seasonal schemes have flourished into all-year schemes. This is no longer confined to historic towns and cities whose centres are under greatest threat from ever- increasing demands to accommodate more traffic and parking space. The growing number of schemes in the last few years in a variety of towns and cities confirms that traffic congestion and pollution are no longer being tolerated. Bus park and ride is one of several measures, including more emphasis on parking controls, being used to promote public transport use and less car use in centres. Schemes in London, and some of the more exemplary ones elsewhere (Bath, Chester, Canterbury, Norwich, Oxford and York), are described, demonstrating what can be achieved. The main prerequisites for success are examined in some detail, including the importance of reducing central area long term parking. (a)