Spatial network analysis as a tool for measuring change in accessibility over time: Limits of transport investment as a driver for UK regional development

Md. Anwar Hossain and Crispin H. V. Cooper

Growth and Change, 2021, vol. 52, issue 4, 2124-2148

Abstract: This paper develops spatial network metrics that contribute to analysis of regional development. We use the sDNA software to derive longitudinal road network density and efficiency measures based on the network within a 1‐hr travel time buffer. We estimate this travel time itself from network shape and show it to be comparable to Google Maps travel time data. Economic analysis of 374 Local Administrative Units in the UK mainland shows cross‐sectional association between our network density and efficiency measures and Gross Value Added per capita (GVApc), whether measured in bivariate correlation or in multiple regression controlling for population, education, economic activity rate and rail stations. This is however both mediated and moderated by the proportion of knowledge‐based businesses; regions lacking a strong knowledge‐based sector show only weak correspondence between GVApc and accessibility. Looking at change over time, increase in network accessibility is linked to growth in the knowledge‐based sector, but inversely linked to economic performance during the 8‐year period studied, a finding which remains unexplained. Although further substantiation is needed, results suggest that the policy of transport investment as a driver of UK economic growth may be less effective in areas lacking potential to develop a strong knowledge‐based sector.

Date: 2021
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