The concept of accessibility: A search for an operational form

TLDR

The concept of accessibility is central to urban studies, yet quantitative descriptions of accessibility at a point have been lacking. This paper aims to clarify accessibility by providing a set of definitions related to the concept. The authors distinguish between relative accessibility between two points and integral accessibility at a point, illustrate operational forms using Hamilton, Ontario, and derive several measures. They recommend a Gaussian‑curve‑based measure as the most suitable for determining integral accessibility at a given point. Studies 5, 101–107.

Abstract

Ingram D. R. (1971) The concept of accessibility: A search for an operational form, Reg. Studies 5, 101–107. The importance of the concept of accessibility in the literature of urban studies requires that a method be found of describing quantitatively the accessibility at a point. The paper is concerned with, firstly, a set of definitions related to the concept of accessibility. A distinction is made between the relative accessibility between two points and the integral, or total, accessibility at a point. Secondly, various operational forms of these definitions are illustrated with reference to the Hamilton, Ontario, urban area. The derivation of the various measures that are developed is discussed. A measure based on the normal, or Gaussian curve is recommended as the most suitable form for determining the integral accessibility at a given point.