Assessment of Gent’s traffic circulation plan
17026
From 2017 to 2020
One year after the introduction of the circulation plan in Ghent (April 2017), TML carried out a first comprehensive analysis of its effects, in order to make a first overall assessment of the circulation plan. In this analysis, we sought to gain a good understanding of why the impacts identified were so significant, and the functioning of the new circulation (including the specific role of the nodes and the expansion of car-free areas) is reviewed.
For this study, we validated and interpreted a large number of data sources. To do so, our project team drew on its extensive expertise in both qualitative and quantitative evaluation. Our researchers conducted a thorough data analysis of real-time measurements of speeds and traffic intensities, among other things. Analysis of mode choice and travel patterns was also an important aspect of this assignment. The results can be read in a widely accessible research report prepared by TML in cooperation with the City of Ghent.
In early 2019, we additionally conducted a second evaluation. In doing so, we not only used similar data sources, but also additional and more in-depth observations. These included a more extensive license plate survey (to map the routes of car traffic and evaluate certain adjustments), the transport mode choice of larger companies from the triennial Federal diagnostics, an extensive travel behaviour survey, and the evolution of Ghent's catering and trade sector. This gave us an even clearer understanding of travel patterns and travel behaviour and allowed us to check whether previously identified trends could be confirmed or needed to be adjusted.
Results
Part 1
The initial analysis clearly shows that the circulation plan has achieved its objectives. We notice a clear shift towards the use of more sustainable modes, a differentiated improvement in accessibility, and better traffic liveability. However, we do note that there are still areas of concern in a number of areas that are best followed up closely and, where necessary, translated into organisational adjustments. This is a process that is already partly under way. In addition, it certainly appears necessary to further inform Gentenaars and Ghent users about the possibilities of this travel system via signage and interactive communication and to optimise other modes as an alternative to the car.
Part 2
The second comprehensive evaluation of the functioning of the circulation plan and its impact confirms the general conclusions of the first evaluation, namely that the circulation plan is achieving its stated objectives.
The multimodal accessibility of the city centre appears to have improved explicitly, with clear improvement for pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport, and a differently organised but generally qualitatively similar accessibility for car traffic. An important factor here is the good functioning of the R40 (similar to the situation before the introduction of the circulation plan, with generally only slightly additional loss times), the approach roads, and the main access roads. There are still some areas of concern here, mainly Dampoort and Drongensesteenweg. For public transport, the focal points are also Drongensesteenweg and Frans Van Ryhovelaan.
Related to this, we note that the inhabitants of Ghent (but also visitors and commuters to Ghent) are reorienting their mode of transport towards sustainable modes with a decrease in car use, an increase in public transport use, and a strong growth in bicycle use.
The liveability of the city centre - specifically traffic safety and air quality - has improved in the process, and a number of indicators indicate further positive economic dynamics in this city centre.
Most Gentenaars think the new circulation plan is a good thing, with a positive assessment of the recorded improvement in liveability and the accessibility shifted towards sustainable modes. The polarisation between supporters and opponents has decreased since the first evaluation a year ago.
For this study, we validated and interpreted a large number of data sources. To do so, our project team drew on its extensive expertise in both qualitative and quantitative evaluation. Our researchers conducted a thorough data analysis of real-time measurements of speeds and traffic intensities, among other things. Analysis of mode choice and travel patterns was also an important aspect of this assignment. The results can be read in a widely accessible research report prepared by TML in cooperation with the City of Ghent.
In early 2019, we additionally conducted a second evaluation. In doing so, we not only used similar data sources, but also additional and more in-depth observations. These included a more extensive license plate survey (to map the routes of car traffic and evaluate certain adjustments), the transport mode choice of larger companies from the triennial Federal diagnostics, an extensive travel behaviour survey, and the evolution of Ghent's catering and trade sector. This gave us an even clearer understanding of travel patterns and travel behaviour and allowed us to check whether previously identified trends could be confirmed or needed to be adjusted.
Results
Part 1
The initial analysis clearly shows that the circulation plan has achieved its objectives. We notice a clear shift towards the use of more sustainable modes, a differentiated improvement in accessibility, and better traffic liveability. However, we do note that there are still areas of concern in a number of areas that are best followed up closely and, where necessary, translated into organisational adjustments. This is a process that is already partly under way. In addition, it certainly appears necessary to further inform Gentenaars and Ghent users about the possibilities of this travel system via signage and interactive communication and to optimise other modes as an alternative to the car.
Part 2
The second comprehensive evaluation of the functioning of the circulation plan and its impact confirms the general conclusions of the first evaluation, namely that the circulation plan is achieving its stated objectives.
The multimodal accessibility of the city centre appears to have improved explicitly, with clear improvement for pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport, and a differently organised but generally qualitatively similar accessibility for car traffic. An important factor here is the good functioning of the R40 (similar to the situation before the introduction of the circulation plan, with generally only slightly additional loss times), the approach roads, and the main access roads. There are still some areas of concern here, mainly Dampoort and Drongensesteenweg. For public transport, the focal points are also Drongensesteenweg and Frans Van Ryhovelaan.
Related to this, we note that the inhabitants of Ghent (but also visitors and commuters to Ghent) are reorienting their mode of transport towards sustainable modes with a decrease in car use, an increase in public transport use, and a strong growth in bicycle use.
The liveability of the city centre - specifically traffic safety and air quality - has improved in the process, and a number of indicators indicate further positive economic dynamics in this city centre.
Most Gentenaars think the new circulation plan is a good thing, with a positive assessment of the recorded improvement in liveability and the accessibility shifted towards sustainable modes. The polarisation between supporters and opponents has decreased since the first evaluation a year ago.
