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Modelling

Pedestrian modelling

    

 

 Click to download Pedestrian Modelling paper Download a PDF version of this page with high resolution images  
Modelled pedestrian flows in Central London

Intelligent Space is a leading company in the field of pedestrian demand modelling. We have developed specialist software that provides predicted flows for existing areas or new developments. Intelligent Space uses an evidence-based approach, calibrating models of pedestrian flows against observation data. This enables clear and open tests of the model's validity and accuracy. Our models have been independently validated by engineers at Transport for London and are based on standard statistical techniques.

What is a pedestrian model?

A pedestrian model provides estimated values for the number of people walking on each street within an urban area or even a whole city. It is based on a statistical model which links real observed flows with a range of factors that have been shown to influence movement patterns. Some of the major factors are land uses, transportation links, pavement capacity and the layout of the street network itself. Once the model has been calibrated for an existing area, it can be applied to new masterplans at design stage and give an early indication on how pedestrians will use the new streets.

Benefits of pedestrian models:

  • Pedestrian models facilitate truly integrated transport planning by providing numbers for pedestrian demand. Pedestrians have often been ignored in transport modelling assessments and this model addresses that gap.
  • The model brings an empirical, scientific approach to design evaluation by measuring a key performance index: foot traffic on the streets.
  • The model is a design evaluation tool, allowing masterplanning teams to test different designs to get the best result.
  • The regression based modelling approach is much more transparent and robust than some modelling techniques.
  • Modelling is far more cost effective and rapid than attempting to monitor all streets within a town or masterplan area.
  • Colour maps and visual representations of flows make complex data easy to understand.

Clients that have used Intelligent Space's pedestrian modelling expertise include:

  • Hammerson and Town Centre Securities have used Intelligent Space's Leeds Pedestrian Model to test design options for the major development at Eastgate.
  • Reading Borough Council have used Intelligent Space's Reading Pedestrian Model to support transport planning policy and the city's vision for transport.
  • Lend Lease used Intelligent Space's model of the centre:mk shopping centre to test the potential benefits of changes to layout and tenant locations.
  • Crown Estates used Intelligent Space's London Pedestrian Model to identify the potential benefits of the pedestrianisation of Glasshouse Street.
  • Central London Partnership have used Intelligent Space's London Pedestrian Model to identify key streets for everyday walking trips and target streetscape improvements.

Other modelling services

Visibility

Public Transport Accessibility

Natural Surveillance

Level of Service

Land Use

Publications
Click to download Pedestrian Modelling summary Download "Pedestrian Demand Modelling of Large Cities" (1Mb PDF)
More publications

Featured Projects

Pedestrian Modelling of Central London for Transport for London and Central London Partnership

Pedestrian modelling of “the centre:mk” for Lend Lease

More recent projects