When the tram disappears : A GIS analysis and qualitative study on the mobility impacts of closing a well-established tram stop in a high-income area

This thesis has examined impacts on mobility from a mobility justice perspective in the area around the closed tram stop ‘Roddföreningen’ in Gothenburg, Sweden. The tram stop had been in use for 116 years before being removed for network efficiency reasons in late 2024. Interviews, a GIS analysis and a questionnaire have been used to gather results that have given insights on how residents and visitors have been affected. This includes how they have adapted and acted following the relatively unordinary event of a public transit stop being removed without replacement. Particular focus has also been put on the role of the area’s high-income status. The findings suggest a high local engagement, with strong perceived feelings of injustice among many locals, directed both at the planning process and at the practical outcome. The results also show a lacking local knowledge over the exact cause for the tram stop’s closure as well as the functionality of alternative public transport modes. Meanwhile, the GIS analysis shows a major impact on physical accessibility and a lacking access to alternative mobility modes, with the clear exception of personal vehicles. The area’s high-income status is reflected in the high degree of automobility amongst residents, as well as the general adaptability of them. Questionnaire respondents manage to find solutions, but instead describe stress, challenging logistics, inconvenience, worry and changes of routines. Where long-term plans and habits have been changed, it has been for particularly vulnerable groups. This especially includes those who have a low automobility or where a high income plays a limited mobility role - particularly children and elderly with disabilities.