Edith Cowan University Research Online Theses: Doctorates and Masters Theses 2010 Improving the aesthetic and other experiential design aspects of bicycle paths in Western Australia Anthony W. Stephens Edith Cowan University Follow this and additional works at: https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses Part of the Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons Recommended Citation Stephens, A. W. (2010). Improving the aesthetic and other experiential design aspects of bicycle paths in Western Australia. https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses/874 This Thesis is posted at Research Online. https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses/874 Edith Cowan University Copyright Warning You may print or download ONE copy of this document for the purpose of your own research or study. The University does not authorize you to copy, communicate or otherwise make available electronically to any other person any copyright material contained on this site. 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By Anthony William STEPHENS BA (MediaSt) PGradCertEnvMgt This thesis is presented in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Geography & Environmental Planning) School of Communications and Arts Edith Cowan University Western Australia October 2010 i USE OF THESIS The Use of Thesis statement is not included in this version of the thesis. Abstract Governments around Australia are in the process of promoting cycling as both a sustainable form of transport that can be a viable alternative to the motor vehicle, particularly for shorter trips, and as a healthy recreational pursuit that can play an important role in addressing the growing problem of obesity and illnesses associated with a sedentary lifestyle in the community. As part of this initiative, the development of effective and efficient infrastructure for bicycles is seen as a vital step for achieving higher participation rates. A major component of the nation’s bicycle infrastructure is the growing networks of paved paths and natural surface trails located in both urban and regional areas. A well-designed path or trail must meet agreed standards related to safety and function and, in order to achieve maximum usage, it must also create a desirable riding experience. While requirements for safety and function are well understood by path and trail planners, little empirical information has been produced to enable these planning professionals to understand the elements that impact upon an individual’s riding experience and to then incorporate them into the design process. Accordingly, the overall aim of this research was to investigate how the aesthetic, cultural and other experiential design aspects of bicycle paths and trails can enhance the perceived riding experience. A secondary objective of the project involved a determination of the procedural factors guiding the local path and trail design protocols and process. A third objective was to gain an insight into the most effective method of communicating the benefits of these riding environments to important target groups. Following the establishment of a theoretical framework incorporating the psychophysical nature of cycling, the effect of landscape and current design practices, the research progressed through several stages beginning with an autoethnography examining the researcher’s extensive experience in the promotion of cycling in Western Australia, augmented by in-depth discussions with leading key informants. This was followed by a mix of quantitative and qualitative methodology to gauge perception of various elements of in-situ and photo-surrogate path-riding environments among the general population in Perth, Western Australia. iii The findings indicate that there are specific experiential design aspects related to the riding environment, surrounding landscape or associated features that can directly influence a person’s decision to use a particular path, trail or route. The research also identified preferred communication strategies and found deficiencies in the current design process that if addressed, could lead to the development of better received and patronised riding environments. It is intended that the outcome of this research will be to provide a design framework to guide path and trail planners in the development of facilities that enhance the overall riding experience. A number of agencies responsible for developing bicycle infrastructure, or design standards, have indicated a desire to access parts of this research project for use in the decision-making process, thus achieving a better balance between safety, functional and experiential aspects. iv Declaration I certify that this thesis does not, to the best of my knowledge and belief: (i) Incorporate without acknowledgement any material previously submitted for a degree or diploma in any institution or higher education; (ii) Contains any material previously published or written by another person except where due reference is made in the text; or (iii) Contain any defamatory material. I also grant permission for the library at Edith Cowan University to make duplicate copies of my thesis as required. Signature: Date: 5/11/2010 v Acknowledgements This project could not have been completed without the support given and valued contribution made by a number of individuals. Firstly, I would like to offer the sincerest thanks to my principal supervisor Associate Professor Rod Giblett, for his tireless expert guidance, advice and encouragement throughout the entire duration of the research. His approachable manner, broad knowledge base and seemingly endless ability to provide meaningful insight on a vast range of topics have played a central role in my success. I would also like to acknowledge the ongoing support and professionalism of other Edith Cowan University staff members including my associate supervisor Dr Stuart Medley, the faculty research consultant Dr Danielle Brady and the graduate studies administration team. Similarly, thanks must be extended to my colleagues at the Western Australian Department of Transport for assisting to identify important issues that shaped the project and to the key informants from other organisations around Australia and internationally who gave their valuable time to provide me with the benefit of their knowledge and experience. Particular mention should be made of my gratitude to the many keen participants in the various stages of my research project who were sourced from among the local cycling fraternity, ride groups and the wider community. vi Table of contents Use of this thesis ............................................................................ii Abstract ...........................................................................................iii Declaration .......................................................................................v Acknowledgements .......................................................................vi Table of contents ..........................................................................vii List of tables ................................................................................xiii List of figures ..............................................................................xiii Chapter 1 Introduction....................................................................1 1.1 Story of cycling in Australia ................................................. 1 1.1.1 Historical perspective....................................................... 1 1.1.2 Cycling today................................................................... 5 1.1.3 Development of riding environments................................ 6 - Major paths..................................................................... 6 - Suburban and regional paths.......................................... 7 - Natural surface trails....................................................... 9 - Associated features of paths and trails ......................... 10 1.2 Key research questions and objective ............................... 11 1.3 Significance of the study .................................................... 11 1.4 Organisational structure of the thesis ............................... 14 1.5 Scope and limitations of the research ................................ 16 1.5.1 Scope and delimitations of the research ........................ 16 1.5.2 Limitations of the research............................................. 18 Chapter 2 Literature review ..........................................................19 2.1 Overview of context ............................................................. 19 2.2 Cycling and society.............................................................