Emissions based congestion charge ineffective say RMIF

‘The emissions of most private cars driven in central London fall below the highest proposed emissions-based congestion charge level , so it is questionable if the proposed plan will achieve its aim of further reducing central London traffic levels,’ said Alec Murray, non-executive chairman of the Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMIF).

He was commenting on the launch of a consultation on changes to the central London congestion charge that is scheduled to open tomorrow (Friday 10 August 2007).

The proposed charge would dramatically penalize some 4x4s and other large vehicles with a £25 a day fee, even if owners live inside the congestion charge zone. At present the rate is £8 a day, and residents receive a 90 per cent discount on this.

Murray continues: ‘Conversely more and more new vehicles now on sale would be eligible for a congestion charge waiver under the new proposals since their emissions are lower than the limit being suggested, making the new system a poor way to cut down on overall traffic numbers.

The proposed measures ignore the environmental impact of London’s taxis and buses, currently exempt from the congestion charge.

Murray commented: Many of London’s 22,000 strong-black cab fleet is old, and these emit far more harmful particulates than a comparable saloon car. There are also 44,000 minicabs, and 8,000 buses, most running on diesel, producing 200,000 tonnes of carbon per year. Will measures be taken to deal with the harmful environmental emissions produced by these vehicles?’

He adds: ‘The existing system is far from ideal, but at least all vehicles are affected equally.’

The deadline for responses to the consultation is Friday 19 October 2007.