Demand Management: A Motoring Organisation's Perspective

Recently, there has been extensive debate on a number of issues related to managing the use of private cars to reduce congestion and the impact of motor vehicles on the environment. Many of the options for travel demand management have the potential for better matching the demand for transport services with the supply. However, all options could have serious consequences not only for road users, but also for the community and economic development. The employment of a single technique will not provide a satisfactory solution to the problem of managing demand for travel in cities. The RACV could support a balanced method involving the employment of road pricing, parking management, public transport, ridesharing, traffic management, land use planning and changed employment practices. If demand management strategies are to be effective, they will have to be explained to the community so that decisions on the choice between private or public transport can be based on realistic information.