DrGeoffrey Clifton

Geoffrey’s research focuses on issues in public transport, in particular the challenge to grow public transport patronage in suburban areas and the provision of transport for people with special needs due to age or disability, including community transport. Geoffrey’s PhD thesis focussed on the impact that frequency and connectivity have on the demand for bus services along ‘Strategic Bus Corridors’. Other research projects in ITLS have focussed on the use of stated choice methods and optimal pricing theories as tools to support the development of public transport outcomes that are both socially optimal as well as financially viable to operators in the presence of optimal subsidy payments. Geoffrey has also undertaken research on quantifying the benefits of large transport infrastructure investments in terms of travel times and reforming the fare structure.

The challenge to grow public transport patronage is particularly acute in lower density suburban areas which lack the volume of passengers needed to support high capacity rail lines. However, without decent public transport, vulnerable members of these communities will be left without the transport access that is essential for maintain employment and social welfare as well as achieving sustainability and emissions targets. Geoffrey’s research primarily focuses on these important challenges and explores how reforms to the policies, planning, pricing and provision of public transport services can provide value for money solutions to support transport accessibility for all, including people living with a disability and the frail aged. Geoffrey’s research methodologies have included choice modelling, online and paper based surveys. Geoffrey has also explored the impact of emerging technologies on transport enterprises, including social media and Mobility as a Service.