Accessibility Assessment Methods and Considerations

The assessment of connectivity is relatively straightforward. For example, for public transport services, use can be made of timetable information. However, best practice in relation to the use of accessibility analysis to assist in the identification of potential development sites is evolving. In general, such analysis will include separate assessments for public transport, walking, cycling and car travel. The needs of people with disabilities are also a factor. The Scottish Executive produced a review of the application of accessibility measurement techniques and prepared guidelines for good practice. Further guidance is also set out in PAN 57 Planning for Transport. Considerable effort, cost, time and technical skills may be required in an accessibility analysis. The most complex forms of analysis are more appropriate only to larger settlements such as Belfast and Londonderry. For most other settlements in Northern Ireland the "accessibility contouring" technique is likely to be more appropriate. Accessibility contouring or time contour maps can be prepared by plotting information manually on maps or by using computer based geographical information systems. The contours join all locations with the same travel time to/from a single chosen location.