This presentation will focus on 1) a tool for capturing perceived walkability, 2) determinants of perceived walkability and 3) the effects of perceived walkability on walking behaviour. Data was collected in late 2022 in selected neighbourhoods in Gothenburg, Dortmund and Genoa, via online surveys. 1103 respondents completed the survey, mean age 46.3 years and 51% women. Key variables included were perceived walkability (measured using the Short Perceived Walkability Scale [SPWS] which asks respondents to indicate to what extent they agree to 15 different statements): 1) to destinations, 2) to public transport stops, and 3) walking for recreational purposes; walking attitudes (20 items) and walking behaviour including a) frequency of walking for five purposes and b) number of trips, duration and distance on weekdays and weekends.

A factor analysis confirmed the three factors of the SPWS tool: to destinations, public transport stops and recreational; explaining 73% of the variance. Three linear regressions with the three perceived walkability factors as dependent variables showed that levels of perceived walkability differ between cities; and that age, perceived barriers and living in a low-income neighbourhood negatively affect some perceived walkability types. Positive attitudes towards walking and finding walking easy positively affect all walkability types. One-way ANOVAS and Chi-square tests further indicate that both trip purposes (frequency), daily walking trips, walking distance and walking duration are influenced by perceived walkability.

Our results indicate that the SPWS tool is a valid measure of perceived walkability. Moreover, an increase in perceived walkability can positively affect walking levels overall and for different purposes. This can be done by improving walking attitudes and by removing barriers for walking. The significant differences between cities imply that cities should learn from each other to improve the perceived walkability and thus increase walking levels.