Press Notices

28.11.05:
Darling's step towards national road pricing is welcomed by CfIT

CfIT today welcomed Alistair Darling's announcement that seven local authority partnerships have been successful in obtaining funds to explore road pricing pilots.

Welcoming the Government announcement, CfIT Chair, Peter Hendy, said:

"The Government is putting its money where its mouth is. This is another significant step towards the introduction of a national scheme. Alistair Darling made clear his intention last year to tackle the country's congestion problem through road pricing. Today's move shows he intends to see his policy through by funding the development of workable pilots."

I am glad of the recognition that road pricing cannot be developed in isolation, but should be part of a package including public transport improvements. This will be critical to their local acceptability.

I look forward to the development process of the pilots being transparent and inclusive."

CfIT member, and Bristol City Councillor, Helen Holland said:

"CfIT applauds local authorities for taking up the TIF challenge, as clearly they recognise the impact of congestion and pollution on local economies, health and well being.

CfIT strongly welcomes the setting up of a local road pricing liaison group, because while the solutions may be local, the technology for road pricing must be co-ordinated in the context of a national scheme."

CfIT is continuing its work to further national road pricing through a variety of studies.

Notes to editors:

1. The Commission for Integrated Transport was set up by Government to provide it with independent advice on strategic policy issues.

2. CfIT recommended Government introduce national road pricing in its report, Paying for Road Use, 2002.

3. For more information, please contact Katie Allister on 07811 277 223.

4. www.cfit.gov.uk.