Connectivity or proximity planning in rural areas? Accessibility and equity insights from Crete, Greece

This study endeavours to shed light on the debate between connectivity and proximity planning in car-centric rural settings. To this end, this research will examine connectivity (new public transport lines) versus proximity (new amenities) scenarios in terms of accessibility to basic amenities and equity implications. Based on that, this research could identify policy insights for improving access to daily needs. The study area is the municipality of Amari in Crete, Greece, a remote mountainous area characterised by a prevalent reliance on cars. Delving into the method, four distinct scenarios are investigated; the first one assesses the existing condition, the second one proposes a redistribution of amenities (proximity), the third one explores the expansion of the public transport network (connectivity), and the final one considers the combined effect of new amenities and new public transport lines. Employing spatial analysis techniques and welfare economics indices, helps measure accessibility to basic amenities like supermarkets, healthcare services and public administration as well as equity conditions for households without cars in the study area. The findings demonstrate that connectivity-focused solutions enhance equity, while proximity-based strategies improve accessibility conditions. However, the most effective scenario in terms of both accessibility and equity, adopts a combinatorial approach, introducing both new amenities and new public transport lines. The study's contribution lies in its quest for key solutions tailored to rural areas, exemplified by the challenging case of Amari. Moreover, the replicability of the method, supported by an analytical methodological framework, could be helpful for policymakers and planners. • This paper explores connectivity and proximity planning scenarios in a rural area. • Spatial analysis techniques coupled with welfare economic indices are utilised. • When compared, connectivity improves equity, while proximity enhances accessibility. • Combinatorial (both connectivity and proximity) solutions achieve optimal results. • This study provides insights for planners to enhance local accessibility and equity.