Understanding the Success Factors of Car Free Development: A Case Study of Stakeholder Interrelations and Management in Car Free Development

Abstract: The social, environmental, and economic impact of cars in urban areas are a rising concern of the public and policy makers since motorized vehicles have several negative impacts on individual health and climate change. Car free developments have induced positive changes in all three dimensions of sustainability. The development of car free cities, however, often encounters stakeholder adversity. To contribute to existing literature on barriers of car free development, this thesis will contribute to the understanding of the relevant stakeholder interrelations and particularly stakeholder management and what role they play in car free development. A qualitative research study was conducted in the form of a single case study consisting of eight semi-structured interviews with six different stakeholder groups. The findings indicate that stakeholder management is critical in creating long term sustainable improvements, as changes in mobility policy such as car free development require a great deal of care when implemented. Moreover, the findings suggest that adequate stakeholder management is needed to overcome persisting stakeholder adversity and not further amplify social and economic issues. To what extent stakeholder management and interrelations contribute to a long-term sustainable development, is suggested for future research.