Urban transport planning for the North West University (Potchefstroom campus) and its environs: approach and core findings

Abstract

The North West University (NWU) is currently in a process of transformation because of the integration of higher education entities as a result of the democratization process that commenced in 1994. NWU is faced with various problems that are related to transport planning, parking provision, congestion and traffic flow. The actuality of this research is related to differences in trip making patterns of students, staff and visitors, as well as availability of public transport services and policies. This paper reports on research findings related to these inter relationships that resulted in ad hoc planning of facilities, and appropriate planning parameters which need to be developed and implemented in order to address the current reality and problems. The paper concludes with various transport planning solutions and alternatives selected through application of multi-criteria analysis. The transport plan includes optimal solutions for implementation that will enhance the planning and operation of road infrastructure supported by public transport services and measures as to address the local situation. Various universities in South Africa are also dealing with transport and spatial planning problems resulting from transformation based on integration of higher education institutions. This research is focused on transportation and traffic implications related to university campuses. Approaches on how it can be accommodated within the institutional transformation scenario are discussed, and will thus be of benefit to all universities located in urban areas in South Africa.