Title

Improving local transport and accessibility in rural areas through partnerships

Authors

Andrew Wear

Document Type

Conference Paper

Publication Date

2008

Subject Area

Location - Rural, Social Issues - social inclusion, Transport programs - Transport coordination

Abstract

This paper outlines the rationale for using partnerships to address local transport and accessibility issues in rural areas. It also draws upon case study material from Ireland, Australia and England to explore the main activities generally undertaken by partnerships in this area. Discussion of local transport and accessibility issues is most prevalent in rural areas, where it underpins strategies aimed at enhanced social inclusion, local employment and economic development, as well as the local environment. Communities and governments are increasingly turning to local partnerships as a means of responding to local transport and accessibility challenges because: -Local transport and accessibility issues are complex, intersecting with many sectors, levels of government and policy areas; -Low population densities and resource constraints in rural areas make innovation and flexibility in local transport a necessity; -All rural areas are different, and strategies need to take into account local problems and opportunities; -Effective delivery of projects often depends on the expertise or capacity of multiple actors, from multiple sectors; and -Due to their local legitimacy, partnerships are well-placed to influence policy. There are clearly challenges associated with the use of partnerships, although these difficulties are outweighed by the benefits, which include more efficient use of resources and improved coordination.