Congestion charge kiss of death

9:43am Thursday 25th January 2007

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IF congestion charges are introduced on Bolton's roads, motorists will not be the only ones to suffer.

A plan to charge on main routes into Bolton is still a long way off being implemented but if it does go ahead it will be another blow for motorists and could also be the kiss of death for a town centre already fighting a losing battle against strict parking regimes and out of town shopping developments.

The Government says it wants to force more people onto public transport but that is unlikely to happen unless dramatic improvements are made.

While fares remain too high, with infrequent services not even serving the right routes, forcing people out of their cars is not a viable option.

If, like other countries we had a cheap, clean and most importantly, easily available frequently running transport system - and maybe a tram line into Bolton - then it might be possible for politicians to get away with congestion charging.

Other methods to clear congestion should be tried first - maybe the age limit for young drivers could be raised or households could be limited to one vehicle or two in exceptional circumstances. Tax breaks for car sharing could be given.

Perhaps those who are in a position to voluntarily give up their cars could be given free or heavily subsidised fares on public transport.

Whatever happens, Governments of any persuasion should really look at various different options before taxing the motorist out of existence and, just as importantly, hitting the town centre shops and the economy of Bolton.