Employer transport plans-a case for regulation?

Employer transport plans (ETPs) are increasingly seen by transport planners as one of potential means to manage the demand for private transport. Such plans seek to reduce trips to work by car by providing, through individual employers, a targeted, integrated package of incentives and disincentives to influence commuters' choice of mode for travel to and from the workplace. This paper makes a critical assessment of the potential of ETPs to reduce trips by car to and from workplaces. Drawing on US, UK and Dutch experience, it argues that only a minority of employers will voluntarily implement ETPs because they will be seen by the majority as an unnecessary and potentially costly diversion from their normal business activities. It further argues that, for implementation to be widespread, regulation may be required, but that this could be unpopular and difficult to enforce. Instead it urges the adoption of an approach which uses fiscal measures to encourage organizations to adopt ETPs.