A geographical analysis of the role of unconventional public transport in selected rural areas of Scotland

Abstract

This thesis undertakes a geographical analysis of the role of unconventional public transport in selected rural areas of Scotland, with special reference to the Highland and the Borders Regions. The terra "unconventional public transport" has been defined, for the purpose of the thesis, as including all forms of public passenger transport other than regular conventional bus, rail and ferry services. The terra, in this context, applies to the use of smaller vehicles whose operation is wholly or partially financed or supported by the Local Authority. The forms of unconventional public transport investigated include Postbus Services, Community Bus Services, Voluntary Social Car Schemes, Dial-a-Ride, Courier Services and the use of school vehicles by fare paying passengers. A geographical analysis of the distribution of these supported schemes and their role is undertaken with special reference to the Highland and Borders Regions but set within the context of Rural Scotland and the network of conventional bus and rail services. These two regions of mainland Scotland are characterised by low population densities, a spatially dispersed settlement pattern and high levels of car ownership where the opportunities for the development of unconventional modes are considerable. The advantages of innovatory public transport in the Highland and Borders Regions have been demonstrated to be as a supplementary service, in many cases as an emergency service, as a lower cost alternative to tendered conventional bus services, as a more flexible and convenient service and in areas with relatively high levels of car ownership, as a standby facility when the family car is not available. The effects of the Transport Act 1985 are also considered but found to be of relatively little significance in influencing the number and distribution of unconventional modes despite the availability of new forms of finance from Central Government. Future prospects for unconventional public transport seem to be good especially in the field of development of the use of school transport by fare paying passengers and of courier-type services.