Urban model launched online

MODELLING

Consultant Steer Davies Gleave has launched an online version of its Urban Dynamic Model, which simulates how transport, population, the economy, and land-use changes interact.

SDG developed the online version  “partly to see if sophisticated modelling tools could be put online, but also to open up the market for using simulation to support policy development”.

“Because it is relatively low-cost to set up, with an interface that can be adapted to suit any local circumstances, we believe this online model will appeal to planners in towns, cities, regions, local enterprise partnerships and any other bodies interested in developing long-term transport and planning policy,” says the consultant. “It can even be used as a consultation tool: why not let your local citizens try to develop successful policies themselves?”

The online demonstration version allows users to undertake challenges for a fictional area, such as trying to reverse a predicted loss of jobs; accommodate thousands of extra homes; and deliver a big reduction in transport carbon dioxide emissions. 

To achieve quick run times the demonstration model has only 23 zones and a more limited range of policy options than the full model.  

Visit: http://udm.steerdaviesgleave.com/#/