Public Transport Network Planning

Abstract

This article provides a framework for understanding the principles and good practice in public transport network planning with an emphasis on bus services. It begins by considering the objectives and purpose of network planning before examining the role of economics in underpinning network planning activities and the higher level objectives of public transport provision. The main body of the text focuses on the principles of network planning, including a discussion of timeframes and the necessity of understanding how network planning outcomes fit into the demand for travel by the end user. This is followed by discussion of the adjustments necessary to provide good network planning for areas of low demand in which flexible transport services play a role. The penultimate section examines issues and areas where more attention is needed in the future and acknowledges the emergence of Mobility as a Service (MaaS). The entry ends with a short commentary on the role of public transport in the future, in the post-COVID-19 world.