Quantifying spatial gaps in public transport supply based on social needs

This paper concerns a research project to identify spatial gaps in public transport provision for people who are socially disadvantaged. The paper outlines the research context for measurement of public transport supply and needs, and then describes the methodology developed for an application in Melbourne, Australia. Results of the application are described including key findings on spatial gaps in services relative to social needs. The research identifies significant gaps between services supplied and social needs for transport services. Consistency of these findings with research in other Australian cities are noted. Implications for policy development are suggested. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.