LONDON'S CONGESTION CHARGING SCHEME - UNLOCKING THE GRIDLOCK

The current state of traffic congestion in London is said to be so serious, causing increasing stress and frustration, that traffic speeds in Central London are below 10 mph in both peak and off-peak periods. This situation is the background for the congestion charging scheme proposed by the Mayor of London, and now out for consultation. The main element of the scheme is a #5 daily charge for each vehicle driving into or within the central charging area between the hours of 7am and 7pm, although certain classes of vehicle will be exempt. For enforcement purposes, number plates will be digitally checked by a network of cameras within the charging area. Estimates of the beneficial effects of the scheme suggest a projected 10-15% reduction in total traffic in the central area. The estimated income of #190M annually must be spent on public transport improvements, some of which have to be implemented before the congestion charging scheme is introduced.