Motorists often complain about the cost of petrol. But, Official figures, show that the cost of motoring has fallen by 13 per cent in real terms since 1997, while bus and coach fares have increased by 17 per cent above inflation. Rail fares have risen by 7 per cent extra above inflation.
The recession is limiting the growth of traffic. But, once the recession is over, car traffic growth will regain its previous rate. The result – more congestion, more CO2 emissions, more accidents and less pleasant roads to cycle on.
If the government really wants to reduce congestion, encourage other forms of cycling and reduce carbon emissions they have to increase the cost of motoring and subsidise alternative forms of transport. It is not sufficient to create nice adverts like Tfl saying it’s nice to cycle. Economics is the most persuasive factor in influencing how people get to work.
The findings come despite the Government’s pledge of cutting carbon emissions by 80 per cent by 2020.
Britain Driven onto roads at Independent
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