New proposals for the future of the Congestion Charge, designed to encourage sustainable travel in central London, have been outlined.
In accordance with the condition in the Government’s first emergency funding agreement, TfL urgently brought forward proposals to temporarily widen the scope and level of the Congestion Charge in June 2020.
The operational hours of the charge were extended to include evenings and weekends, and the charge was increased from £11.50 to £15.
Since then, the mayor of London has been clear that the temporary charges should be reviewed to ensure a strong economic recovery in London and one that is environmentally sustainable.
TfL has now opened a consultation and is seeking views on the future operation of the Congestion Charge.
The main proposals include no charges in the evenings to support London’s recovery, operating between 12:00-18:00 on weekends and retaining the current charge level of £15.
Other proposals include:
- No charge between Christmas Day and New Year’s Day inclusive
- The charge to be in operation on bank holidays from 12:00-18:00
- Being able to pay up to three days after travel
TfL and the mayor say these changes will ensure gains made in reducing car dependency over more than 15 years are not lost and the Capital’s recovery from the pandemic is a green and sustainable one.
They add that high levels of traffic make deliveries less reliable, delay bus journeys, worsen air pollution and make it less safe for people walking and cycling.
Sadiq Khan, mayor of London, said: “The Government insisted on the widening of the level and scope of the Congestion Charge last year as a condition of TfL’s emergency funding agreement – which was only needed because of the pandemic.
“As we look to the future it’s vital the charge strikes the right balance between supporting London’s economic recovery and helping ensure it is a green and sustainable one.
“These proposals support the Capital’s culture, hospitality and night-time businesses which have struggled so much, as well as encouraging people to walk, cycle and use public transport.
“We must not replace one public health crisis with another due to filthy polluted air, and our measures to create more space for walking and cycling have already had a huge impact. I urge Londoners to have their say and take part in the consultation.”
03 August 2021