Motor industry says congestion charge proposals will do little for carbon or congestion
Fri 19 October 2007
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The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has called for an extension to the London Mayor's consultation on proposed changes to the congestion charge because of the complexity of the proposed scheme. In its initial response to the consultation, the Society says that Transport for London's current proposals will neither significantly cut CO2 nor reduce congestion in London.
SMMT has called for an extension to the mayor's consultation on proposed changes to the congestion charge. In an initial response to Transport for London (TfL), the motor industry body has made clear that current proposals will neither significantly cut CO2 nor reduce congestion in the capital and that, given the complexity of the scheme, more time is needed for discussion.
The SMMT says that TfL's own figures claim a CO2 saving of up to 8,100 tonnes. That compares to total ground-based transport emissions in London of 9.7 million tonnes. In other words, according to SMMT, the maximum benefit for the capital would be a CO2 reduction of just 0.084 per cent.
SMMT Chief Executive, Christopher MacGowan said: "The motor industry has asked the mayor for an extension to the consultation period to work with Transport for London. The issues are complex and TfL must be absolutely clear about the scheme's aims. Its execution must also deliver the greatest benefit both in terms of congestion and CO2 reduction and the charges to drivers must be proportionate.'"
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