The Importance of Transport in Business’ Location Decisions - Scoping Study (Executive Summary)

The aim of this project was to review current literature of issues considered by businesses in choosing where they locate / relocate and in particular, the significance and importance to which transport is a factor within that decision-making process. The review pulled together the evidence already available about the factors which influence these decisions, the extent to which transport is a consideration within these decisions and the impacts of these decisions on the travel patterns of customers and staff, as well as operational considerations. From this review, the current evidence base was mapped out, identifying and prioritising the needs for future research in this area. This scoping study was needed to consolidate the level of understanding of the impact of transport in businesses' locational decision-making processes and to assist the Department in developing meaningful, evidence-based areas for future research, minimising the burden of research surveys on business respondent