Investigating commercial and convenience services installed in intermodal passenger terminals located in mid-sized European cities

The concept of intermodality has gained key importance in the sustainable mobility strategy of the European Union. In the past two decades, different types of intermodal passenger terminals (IPTs) have been built in many European cities. These facilities provide possibility for passengers to change transportation mode or route in a short time and connect long-distance transportation services with public transportation modes under one roof. IPTs, however, are more than just hubs in the transportation network, but, due to their size and special location in the city, they are landmarks of cities. In addition, IPTs host not only transportation services but also different types of commercial and convenience services used both by passengers and local people. This study focuses on classifying IPTs based on their hierarchical position in the transportation network and determining which type is the most generally located in European mid-sized cities. Then, an investigation is carried out to map those commercial and convenience services that are the most installed in such IPT types. Finally, three European IPTs located in mid-sized cities and one in a large city are analysed to reveal the similarities and differences in the commercial and convenience services they host. This study found that such commercial and convenience services are most suitable for installation in IPTs that are related to transportation services, do not require a substantial amount of space, and do not block or obstruct the movement of people. Furthermore, as a component of the comprehensive planning documentation, a preliminary commercial feasibility study should be produced for each IPT.