A study on Powered Two-Wheeler user perceptions towards street designs with elements of shared space

Abstract

Inspired by developments in urban planning, the concept of “shared space” has recently emerged as a way of creating a better public realm by facilitating pedestrian movement and lowering vehicle traffic volumes and speeds. Previous research looked at how the behaviour and perceptions of pedestrians, vehicle drivers and pedal cyclists, vary with the introduction of elements of shared space. The aim of this study is to extend this analysis to Powered Two-Wheeler (PTW) riders, who are a road user group that is often overlooked. Data are collected by means of a purpose-developed stated-preference survey, where PTW users are presented with a set of hypothetical scenarios of streets designed with different combinations of elements of shared space and are asked to express their “willingness to share space” with vehicles and pedestrians. The results show that PTW riders appear to treat shared space features more like motorised users rather than non-motorised ones. Indeed, lower willingness to share is expressed when large numbers of pedestrians and static obstacles (such as trees, seating and fountains) are present. On the other hand, PTW riders are more positive towards shared space elements if the design provides ample space and a smooth pavement surface.