Analysis of commuting needs using graph theory and census data: A comparison between two medium-sized cities in the UK

Abstract: In the European context, medium sized cities play a key role in organizing the territory at the regional level. Studies on commuting and travel behaviour often refer to large metropolitan areas, but results are not directly transferable because of differences in resources and processes. In addition, data availability is typically reduced to national datasets, thus most studies cannot be replicated. This paper analyses spatial commuting trends in two English medium sized cities with different spatial patterns. Locally disaggregated nationwide available census data and registry of planning applications were analysed with multiple linkage analysis and complementary indices. Results indicate that commuting trips to the city centre dominate in both monocentric and dispersed urban areas regardless of the presence of motorways. However, differences were found in the distance and number of trips as well as in the relationship between mode of transport and type of accommodation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]