Land Use Planning and Transport

Course summary

This course introduces transport and urban planning professionals to the interactions between land use and transport systems. You will explore how patterns of development shape travel demand and mobility, and how transport infrastructure and services influence urban form. Through case studies and practical exercises, you will assess policy options for sustainable, efficient, and equitable urban development.

The course is delivered in person at our Marylebone campus. Interactive sessions are led by expert tutors, enabling real-time discussion of key topics and practical exercises. 

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• Analyse the interrelationship between land use patterns and transport demand
• Evaluate planning interventions and their effects on mobility and accessibility
• Develop recommendations to support sustainable and equitable transport and land use planning
• Present evidence-based policy or planning proposals to stakeholders

Our tutor

Enrica Papa, Professor of Transport Planning at the University of Westminster and has a PhD in Transport Network and Urban Systems Engineering.

Enrica specialises in sustainable urban mobility, inclusive transport, and reducing carbon emissions. She has over 15 years of teaching, research, and consultancy experience in the UK and across Europe, and has led major projects on urban streets, cycling and walking accessibility, and innovative transport planning solutions. A Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, Enrica brings a blend of academic expertise and practical insight to the course.

Entry requirements

A first degree in a relevant subject is recommended but not essential. Some understanding of urban planning or transport concepts is advantageous. Basic GIS and Excel skills are desirable.

Course structure

Students will:

• Examine how transport shapes land use and vice versa
• Review policy frameworks for urban development and sustainable transport
• Explore case studies from UK and international cities
• Analyse spatial and transport data to inform planning decisions
• Consider equity, accessibility, and environmental impacts in planning

Teaching and assessment

The course normally consists of 12 sessions of three hours. In 2026, sessions will take place on consecutive Wednesdays from 10am to 1pm, running from 21 January to 8 April.

The sessions will involve lectures from staff and expert guests, and group exercises and discussions.

There are two pieces of assessed coursework:

• Critical analysis of a key theme in land use and transport planning
• Exploring accessibility challenges in an urban area (students will focus on identifying and describing a specific accessibility challenge in a chosen urban area)

Accreditation

This course is part of the University of Westminster's MSc in Transport Planning. Successful completion earns credits towards a full MSc, Postgraduate Diploma, or Postgraduate Certificate.