MAGUS: modelling access with GIS in urban systems

The project aims to develop, test and apply a Geographical Information System (GIS) for modelling access for wheelchair users in urban areas. The principal focus is to provide a GIS system that will work as a decision support and mapping tool for urban planners. In addition, the system has been designed to encompass future developments, including use as a guidance device to help wheelchair users to assess and select optimal routes through the urban environment. The study employs and integrates two contrasting methodological approaches: social science techniques, aimed at investigating and quantifying the factors that need to be considered in modelling access to the urban environment by wheelchair users; and computer technologies (including GIS and AI) to translate these into an operational route assessment and modelling package. This tool is to be applied and tested in Northampton, U.K., using volunteers from both wheelchair users and urban planners.