Zuidas accessibility score declines

For motorists, the score for journeys to and within the south side of Amsterdam, referred to as Zuidflank, began to decline some time ago. The fact that things are so busy is the main reason for this fall. The survey conducted in 2023 also shows that cyclists and mopeds users also rate their journey lower than in previous years, despite improvements to cycle routes in the area. Busy crossings and junctions are seen as especially problematic, but there are also increasingly issues with the cycle path itself. Respondents cite uses of electric bikes as a source of nuisance, mainly because of their speed. Cyclists feel significantly less attached to their mode of transport than in 2016, but slightly more than last year. This attachment relates to the positive experience that a bicycle evokes. Bikes are seen as sporty and healthy and a good way of relaxing and spending time outdoors. The reason why cyclists cite this attachment less frequently relates to other negative factors, such as disruption from mopeds and electric bikes, antisocial behaviour and busy traffic. In 2016, we measured this attachment rate at 50%, but in 2023 it was 15%.

Insight into the ‘new normal’

The annual Mobility Survey, conducted in June and July 2023, was completed by almost 1,300 people who travel to and from Zuidas. Most participants (72%) work in the Zuidflank, around 5% are residents and 4% visitors. Since this is the first survey after the pandemic period, it provides insights into the ‘new normal’. This information can be put to good use for measures arising from the Sustainably Accessible Zuidflank Mobility Plan (Mobiliteitsplan Zuidflank Duurzaam Bereikbaar). The Mobility Plan aims to ensure that the south side of Amsterdam remains sustainably accessible and liveable in the period up to 2040. The focus is on more space for walking, cycling, public transport and leisure and reduced car use, increased avoidance of peak periods and the spreading of car and public transport use.

Short car journeys

The survey also reveals some interesting insights concerning the use of different modes of transport. It shows that 7% of people who travel less than 5 km to reach Zuidas make use of the car. At a distance of up to 10 km, almost 10% use the car. Car users are still well catered for in Zuidas: 80% of all car users park their car at a location provided by their employer. The majority of cyclists park their bicycles on the street.

Reduced car traffic

Although car users are very wedded to their mode of transport, 39% say they would consider public transport if the connection improves. Flexible working hours (almost 13%) and working from home (almost 12%) are also seen as possible reasons for opting for a different mode of transport than the car. This opens up clear opportunities for achieving the objectives of the Mobility Plan: 10% less car traffic and 10% fewer journeys at peak periods.

Multi-year strategy

The City of Amsterdam will take into account all of the insights from the Mobility Survey in developing the multi-year strategy in the coming year. This strategy and related measures are being developed in order to achieve the objectives set out in the Sustainably Accessible Zuidflank Mobility Plan.