THE ROLE OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT SYSTEMS IN WEST GERMAN CITIES. FROM THE BOOK, NEW LIFE FOR CITY CENTRES: PLANNING, TRANSPORT AND CONSERVATION IN BRITISH AND GERMAN CITIES

This article describes the successful integrated public transport system managed by the Greater Hanover Transport Association. A coordinated timetable for the various transport modes (bus, light rail and local trains) has been created which operates with uniform fares. Fast connections from the surrounding area into the city are provided by the local Federal railway. The light rail system serves the city centre and covers about a 12 km radius from the centre. Buses provide links between the various traffic sectors, and also link surrounding districts with the city rail termini. The light rail system has stopped the decline in public transport use. From 1969 to 1986, the overall increase in use was 38%. Over 90% of those questioned thought that the light rail was punctual, regular, comfortable and fast. It has been developed from the old radial tram system, and has 4 diameter lines. Its routes are usually segregated from other traffic either by taking them underground, or, by fixed dividers. Only 16 km of its 69 km length is not separated, thus increasing the average speed to 27.2 km/hour, and 32 km/hour in tunnels. A maximum of 35 trains per hour can pass through the tunnels. Computerized steering, operating systems, and signalling systems keep delays to a minimum and also provide up to date passenger information. Short undercover transfer routes to buses and other light rail lines are provided at all termini. This paper is published in both English and German, with the German version following the English one. It is entitled: Die Rolle des Oeffentlichen Verkehrs in Staedten in der Bundesrepublik. (TRRL)