Station Scanner

Cycling and walking take up less space in urban areas, are healthy activities and produce no harmful emissions. In the Netherlands, around 43 % of train journeys start with a bike ride, and this percentage is growing steadily. But this does not happen automatically. To make these bike/walk+train journeys as comfortable as possible, good area planning is required. But where do you start?

The Station Scanner is a practical, online GIS tool which helps determine the potential for and impact of active mobility (walking, cycling) in areas around stations, and can be used to compare stations with one another. It is a useful tool for parties involved in the development or redevelopment of station areas and public spaces, such as municipalities, regional authorities and rail transport companies. Many of these parties are not sufficiently aware of the positive impact of cycling and walking compared to driving, in particular when high demands are made of the available space. Communicating this message is often the biggest challenge. The Station Scanner creates a level playing field for all forms of traffic in the decision-making process.

This tool was developed based on the research results of two graduation projects, in collaboration with TU Delft. Theoretical knowledge of station areas and active mobility was translated into a functional tool which provides direct, data-based insight into the current situation and the available options for active mobility. Using the Station Scanner, well-reasoned decisions to promote active mobility can be made.

The tool was developed internally at Witteveen+Bos by data and traffic specialists, the intention being to apply it in new and existing projects.

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