THE IMPACT OF THE SUPERTRAM LIGHT RAILWAY ON THE ENVIRONMENTAL COGNITION OF SOME SHEFFIELD RESIDENTS: THE CONTEXT PRIOR TO OPENING

This paper presents a study, contributing to the careful monitoring of the performance of the Supertram light rail system at Sheffield, England, against its goals, forecasts and costs. The study explores individual residents' travel behaviour, and analyses it using a series of open-ended qualitative interviews. Data from these interviews will provide a basis for an additional study of how the Supertram system influences local people's spatial understanding of Sheffield. Some preliminary findings of the first series of results are outlined, concerning: (1) cost and time considerations; (2) quality of travel environment; (3) appropriateness of routing; (4) environmental impact; (5) orientation towards the future operating environment; and (5) spatial perceptions before the opening of Supertram services. Some of Supertram's key operational strengths could be used to maximise patronage, and there may be some scope to improve the operating environment. For example, fare levels need to be set at a level able to attract passengers, and Supertram could also be very attractive to commuters from outside Sheffield. Some limited-stop express services could be introduced to reduce its present rather long journey times. This paper was presented at the 26th UTSG conference at the University of Leeds, 5-7 January 1994.