PARK AND RIDE - THE OXFORD EXPERIENCE

Details are given of the planning, implementation and operation of the successful park and ride scheme in Oxford which has been in operation since 1978. Some comparisons with other schemes in the UK are made and it is noted that they have not been very successful. The importance of the Oxford scheme being part of an overall policy designed to reduce city centre congestion is stressed. Amongst the complementary measures taken to achieve this overall aim are the following: provision of bus lanes on the routes to the city centre from the park and ride car parks; pedestrianised streets - only public transport allowed on direct central through routes to pick up and set down outside the shops; a reduction in central area parking places and an increase in the cost of these places for long term parking; residents parking zones - no opportunities for commuters to park adjacent to the city centre; and traffic management measures-to assist the movement of public transport through the central area. The park and ride service operates on a one-man driver, limited stop basis between the northern car park and the southern car park via the city centre, every 12 min Monday to Friday and every 10 min at peak times and on Saturdays. It is emphasised that even, when as in Oxford a park and ride scheme is part of an overall transport policy in which there is interaction with central area parking policy and public transport policy, such a scheme stil requires financial support in early years due to the unwillingness of travellers to change their habits overnight. The importance of consistent political support is stressed if such a scheme is to be successful. (Author/TRRL)