Citation

Cassidy S, McGuinness I. Transp. Plann. Tech. 1993; 17(1): 67-76.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1993, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/03081069308717500

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Community Transport (CT) in the UK is in a period of transition, one which may radically alter the nature of its operations and its role in a special needs transport market. This paper examines the community development orientation which has traditionally pervaded the CT sector. It argues that the validity of this orientation is becoming increasingly questionable, and points to emerging features such as professionalism and entrepreneurial activity within individual CT organisations which may be seen to challenge the sector's traditional assumptions. The ability of a CT organisation to determine its own destiny can only be understood with reference to the ideals which permeate the organisation and the internal and external influences which hold sway over it. The paper provides a model built around the concepts of control and ideals which highlights the changes in orientation of case study organisations. The paper suggests that accepted assumptions underlying both individual CTs and the sector in general are becoming less appropriate within the special needs transport market. It concludes that, although many individual CTs may continue to develop given adequate resourcing, the degree of uncertainty facing voluntary transport organisations may impact upon their very survival.