The independent think tank and charity Centre for London is calling for the capital’s congestion charge to be scrapped and replaced by a “simpler, smarter and fairer system” of road user charging.
“Traffic congestion is bad news for London’s businesses and for Londoners’ health, and despite welcome interventions to encourage drivers to travel by other means, these latest figures suggest more needs to be done,” said Chief Executive Nick Bowes.
“The Congestion Charge, while world-leading when it was first introduced, is outdated and its effectiveness has diminished over time, particularly as it only affects those who drive through our city centre.”
“The Mayor needs to be bold and introduce a simpler, smarter and fairer system of road user charging which replaces both the Congestion Charge and the Ultra Low Emission Zone. Such a scheme would tackle congestion, improve air quality and promote travel by public transport, walking and cycling, by charging drivers by the mile. It could also play a key role in filling the hole in Transport for London’s budget.”
(Picture – Yay Images)
