5 years after congestion charge introduced
A report out today reveals that 5 years after the congestion charged was introduced, congestion is back to the same level it was before the charge. The report published by Transport for London states that the amount of vehicles in the initial charging zone has reduced 
by 21% that’s 70,000 fewer cars every day, the amount of vehicles entering the extension zone has fallen by 14%, that’s anther 30,000 cars.
So why is congestion up?
The increase in congestion has been blamed on the increase in road works with a widespread programme of replacement gas and mains replacement, and the decreasing levels of road space in the both the original zone and the western zones, to make way for traffic management systems which aim to help pedestrians, cyclists and public transport users.
Mayor Boris Johnson is looking at further ways to reduce congestion including fining utility companies that cause traffic delays and re phasing of many traffic signals.
| Congestion charge | …at a glance |
|---|---|
| Reduction in number of cars entering main zone | 70,0000 a day |
| Reduction in number of cars entering weston zone | 30,000 a day |
| NET Revenue generated from congestion charging | £137 million |
| Cost to enter congestion charging zone | £8 |
| Penalty for not paying congestion charge | £120 – reduced to £60 if paid in 14 days |
| Reduction in C02 levels in air in first year of charge | 20% |
What is the ETA?
The ETA is a not-for-profit ethical organisation providing motorists and cyclists with carbon-neutral breakdown cover and insurance products. As well as encouraging responsible driving to reduce carbon, the ETA campaigns for sustainable transport.
