Thursday 19 Jan 2017

LCCI responds to London Assembly report on congestion in the capital

Responding to the London Assembly Transport Committee report 'London Stalling' released today, Chief Executive of London Chamber of Commerce and Industry said:

"There is no question that congestion in London needs to be seriously addressed on a number of levels and this report is potentially a very welcome contribution to the debate with some good ideas.

"We have said that the congestion charge no longer serves the purpose for which it was created and would not oppose targeted charging in principle. However our concern would be that businesses are not used as a money-spinner and any new scheme takes into account the economic value of a journey, meaning that the use of public transport is encouraged but businesses are not punished when alternatives are not available. Excessive new congestion charging on delivery vehicles will end up reflected in prices that customers will pay.

"Any steps to mitigate the impact of roadworks on congestion would be welcomed as would an assessment on a road pricing regime for private hire vehicles. Likewise reducing restrictions on night-time deliveries could have a significant impact on congestion, particularly at peak hours.

ENDS

Media contact
Katharine McGee
T: +44 (0)20 7203 1897
M: +44 (0)7827 241528
E: kmcgee@londonchamber.co.uk

NOTES TO EDITOR:
1. London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) is the capital's largest and most representative business organisation, with members ranging in size from multi-national companies to SMEs and sole traders.
2. Colin Stanbridge, Chief Executive, is available for further comment and interview.