Travel behaviour in Dutch monocentric and policentric urban systems

In this paper, we analyse how monocentric and policentric urban structures affect modal choice and travel distances for different travel purposes in the Netherlands. The analysis is based on data from the Dutch National Travel Survey 1998. Here we distinguish four kinds of urban systems: One monocentric and three types of policentric systems. The evidence on how the structure of urban regions affects travel behaviour is mixed. Regarding modal choice, deconcentration of urban land uses encourages driving and discourages the use of public transport as well as cycling and walking. However, in terms of distance travelled per person, the results of the relocation of jobs and residences to suburban locations are less commuting in some urban regions, and longer commuting distances in others. The longer commute may also be an effect of the strong spatial planning policies in the Netherlands.