Modelling shopping centre traffic movement (1): Model validation

This paper is the first of two papers that investigate the application of a discrete event simulation model to the study of the impact changes in the design of shopping facilities have on traffic patterns. The model will allow planners to determine how the location of shops and the design of parking and traffic systems interact. The model looks at the totality of the trip, incorporating movement along the road system with movement in the parking lot. Importantly, the interaction between each of these elements and the layout of shops in the centre will influence the route choice taken by parkers. This paper presents the model structure and its validation.