Teesside University research team focus on transport inequality

A call has been sounded for people to share their experiences travelling around the Tees Valley for work, education or training as part of a new in-depth study.

The study, commissioned by Tees Valley Combined Authority and led by Teesside University researchers, aims to explore how people use and access transport systems in the region and what effect this has on their work, skills training and education opportunities.

Overcoming Transport Barriers to Opportunity is an eight-month project led by researchers from Teesside University’s Institute for Collective Place Leadership. The study is seeking views from people, both employed and unemployed, on what their daily transport challenges are. Its findings will then help TVCA create plans to address these and build solutions into its existing transport vision.

Barriers could include access to public transport, transport during non-peak times, and other issues such as cost or safety. The University’s research team will carry out a range of interviews and surveys to capture voices from urban, rural and coastal communities across Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar and Cleveland, and Stockton-on-Tees.

Professor Matthew Cotton is leading the multidisciplinary project team of Teesside University researchers; Professor Tracey Crosbie, Dr Helen Moore, Dr Lee Towers, Jake Milner, Rasheed Folarin, Koushani Amarasinghe, and Professor Paul Crawshaw, whose research interests span regional inequality, urban design and social sustainability.

Professor Cotton, co-director of the University’s Institute for Collective Place Leadership, said: “Getting around the Tees Valley can be challenging for some residents. This project, led by Teesside University, puts people's real experiences at the heart of the story.

“We will explore how transport shapes daily life, access to work and training, and how the Tees Valley Combined Authority can shape the transport system to expand access to a range of economic opportunities and make transport easier and more accessible for people across the region.”

He added: “For some people, public transport may be a lifeline, whether for social interaction, or to access work or education. By listening to local voices and working closely with stakeholders, the aim is to deliver practical, evidence-based solutions which support inclusive growth.”

More detailed plans are being developed as part of TVCA’s £978m transport settlement for infrastructure upgrades across the region. Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “We’ve laid the foundations for more growth and more jobs in our region with big projects underway and coming down the line.

“But we need to ensure as many people as possible can access these opportunities – and get around more efficiently and safely. We’re improving travel in our region by harnessing the power of modern technology and overhauling our railway stations. But we want to hear it straight.

“If costs are too high, if you can’t get to work or training, or if you’re struggling with car access or expenses, we want to hear it. This study is about cutting through the noise and getting real, honest answers so our investment solves the right problems.”

Members of the public wanting to get involved in the research project can complete an online survey to share their own experiences.

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