Bajada, Thérèse; (2018) The lmpact of Bus Reform on Behaviour and Policy: The Case of Malta. Doctoral thesis (Ph.D), UCL (University College London).

Preview

Text Bajada_ID_thesis.pdf Download (9MB) | Preview

Abstract

Bus reforms are widely used to increase patronage, improve service quality, and reduce subsidies. Most of the literature on bus reforms focuses on economic factors, but studies of other interventions for behaviour change show that complex interactions between other factors can also be involved. The research presented in this thesis analyses the dynamics between behaviour and policy in a bus reform, using Malta as a case study. A novel conceptual model that considers the relationship between behaviour and policy is proposed. It draws its inspiration from two models, the Theory of Planned Behaviour (Ajzen, 1991) and the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation and Behaviour Model (Michie et al., 2011). The proposed model combines the behavioural detail of the former with the comprehensiveness of the latter. This model is designed to aid in policy formulation and planning. Behaviour and its influencing factors were studied through two cross-sectional questionnaires (pre- and post-reform) performed with Maltese residents and tourists. Data were analysed using Multinomial Logistic Regression and Factor Analysis. Semistructured interviews supplemented the questionnaires, providing a more in-depth insight. Policy implementation was studied using a mixed approach of semi-structured interviews with transport professionals together with an analysis of the relevant policy documents and institutions. Discourse analysis was performed on the transcripts of the interviews. The policy documents and institutions were analysed through policy evaluation criteria, and the Institutional Analytical Development Framework approach. The findings indicate an overall perception of the failure of the reform, resulting from negative evaluations linked with the unreliability of the bus service. Some of these issues arose because of the institutional structures in place, and policy dependence on short-term government agendas. High expectations combined with initial operational problems led to disappointment and the loss of trust. These findings reinforce the idea that bus reform influences the complex links between behaviour and policy.

Download activity - last month

Export as XMLJSONCSV

Download activity - last 12 months

Export as CSVJSONXML

Downloads by country - last 12 months

Export as CSVXMLJSON

Archive Staff Only

View Item