Road charging proposal could be positive, says FTA

Proposals by Mayor Sadiq Khan for road charging based on distance travelled and vehicle missions could be positive “provided they don’t simply add cost”, said the FTA.

The association said it is interested in distance-based charging as an alternative to broad schemes like low emission zones and congestion charging.

“The Congestion Charge has arguably played a role in suppressing traffic demand in central London, but FTA has always argued that it is a blunt tool which fails to recognise the essential role that freight plays in serving London’s businesses, residents and visitors,” said Natalie Chapman, head of policy for London.

“New and emerging technology could play a pivotal part in providing a more sophisticated system that accounts for the essential role of the vehicle and the time of day and incentivises cleaner vehicles.”